Gays likely to
win adoption rights in Scotland

In an effort to find more parents to adopt needy children, a new bill soon to be introduced into parliament will allow gay couples in Scotland to adopt and be foster parents. Formerly, only one partner in an unmarried couple, whether gay or straight, was allowed to adopt, but the new legislation will let all unmarried couples adopt jointly, reports The Scotsman. "At a time when the number of adoptions is falling and the number of children living in seriously chaotic households is rising, we have to secure more opportunities for youngsters to enjoy family stability, which can make all the difference," Peter Peacock, Scotland's education minister, told The Scotsman. Predictably, the Catholic Church of Scotland objects to the plan, calling it a "social experiment" that is not good for children. However, observers expect it to pass upon introduction into parliament. (The Advocate)