Skipton’s Tory MP Julian Smith backed this week’s controversial Bill to legalise gay marriage.

The Bill cleared the crucial Commons hurdle but the Government needed the support of Labour and the Liberal Democrats as only 132 Conservatives MPs supported it, with 139 opposed.

Mr Smith said he had received “very moving letters from the parents of gay men and women, who just want their children to be able to commit on equal basis”.

The Bill was also supported by fellow Tory MP Kris Hopkins, who represents parts of South Craven.