The MP for Finchley and Golders Green has spoken of his delight after the same-sex marriage bill passed into law.

Mike Freer, who is himself in a civil partnership, said he was pleased the bill had received Royal Assent so quickly.

He added: “All is well. Those who wish to get married can now do so whoever they are. From my point of view, marriage is the cornerstone of society. ”

Mr Freer delivered an impassioned plea in favour of gay marriage when it was debated in the House of Commons in February.

The MP, who clashed with MP for Hendon Matthew Offord over the issue, said the amendments to the bill meant those who opposed it have had many of their concerns addressed.

He added: “The other good thing is that faith groups such as the Church of England are protected with the quadruple lock.

“This means those who want to perform same sex marriages can, and those faith groups that don’t want to don’t have to. There is also more protection for religious freedom.

“Everyone is satisfied.”

The Conservative MP added he and his partner of more than 20 years would look at the possibility of being married themselves in the future when the proceedure becomes clearer.