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

What is being seen as an attack on the Labour Party by the spiritual leader of Catholics in England and Wales, is ruffling feathers in Westminster and beyond.

Human rights campaigners, trades unions and several religious groups have reacted with dismay to a House of Lords vote allowing religious organisations greater exemptions from anti-discrimination law in matters of employment.

The role of religion is under the spotlight as the House of Lords debates amendments to the Equality Bill. They include a proposal to allow religious elements in same-sex partnerships.