UK consulate in Hong Kong bars same-sex weddings after government objection
British missions in China and numerous other countries can perform same-sex unions, but Hong Kong's will not go against government policy
Same-sex marriages will be allowed at British consulates in China, Russia, Azerbaijan and 20 other countries, but not in Hong Kong, according to the local consulate.
"Unfortunately, the Hong Kong government has raised an objection to the solemnisation of same-sex marriages in Hong Kong," said a spokeswoman for the British consulate.
While diplomatic missions are under British rule and not subject to Hong Kong law, it is a requirement under British law that a marriage licence only be issued if the host government does not object.
The news from the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office last week saying couples could approach consulates in some countries to be married initially drew joy from LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) couples, but it was cut short when the consulate revealed the Hong Kong government's objection.
"The Chinese [central] government and the Russian government aren't objecting, yet the Hong Kong government is still saying they don't want this," said Nigel Collett, a writer who is set to marry his Singaporean partner this August in Britain.
"They're blocking every stage of the way to same-sex marriage, thinking if they give an inch it'll come to pass in Hong Kong."
While Collett's plans are not foiled by the Hong Kong government's objection, others who have been lobbying their consulates are still upset about this development.
