Gay marriage plans cleared another major parliamentary hurdle last night when peers overwhelmingly rejected a bid to block the legislation.
A rare “wrecking” amendment declining to give the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill a second reading was defeated on a free vote by 390 to 148, majority 242.
The marathon debate, with more than 90 speakers over two days, revealed deep divisions over the controversial measure in the Upper House.
It is certain to face further formidable opposition during detailed line-by-line scrutiny in its later stages.
MPs have already backed the bill, which applies to England and Wales, despite fierce opposition from dozens of Tory backbenchers.
Critics in both Houses warn the move will undermine the traditional concept of marriage, while supporters stress the need for equality.
The result was greeted with cheers from supporters of gay marriage outside Parliament.
The scale of the vote against the wrecking amendment proposed by independent crossbencher Lord Dear will be a major fillip for the bill’s supporters.
Lord Dear insisted the change would “completely alter the concept of marriage as we know it”.
But Baroness Stowell of Beeston, for the Government, hailed the legislation as a “force for good” which would strengthen the institution of marriage.
Stonewall chief executive Ben Summerskill said: “We’re absolutely delighted.”