The Church of England have today issued their formal response to the government’s consultation on same-sex marriage. They had a great opportunity to acknowledge the diversity of views within their own ranks and to move on from the defensive tone that characterises so many Christian contributions to debates over sexuality. It is an opportunity that they have completely missed.

The Bishop of Salisbury, Nicholas Holtam, has joined a number of senior Church of England clergy in encouraging Christians to welcome same-sex marriage.

Religious and secular equality campaigners have criticised advertisements planned by a group who believe in “curing” people of homosexuality.