The former deputy leader of the Scottish Conservatives says “it is essential that appropriate safeguards are put in place” to protect religious liberties as part of equal marriage reform in Scotland.

According to the Dundee Courier MSP Murdo Fraser told equal marriage opponents in Dunkeld: “There are few issues which feature so prominently in my constituency mail bag as that of same-sex marriage.

“It is clear there are many local residents who are very concerned about the Scottish Government’s proposals to legalise same-sex marriage, and in particular the impact this might have on religious freedom.

“I was pleased to attend the event at Dunkeld and meet constituents with serious concerns about this. If it is to proceed, it is essential that appropriate safeguards are put in place to ensure that liberties are not adversely affected.”

Along with England & Wales, Scotland is pushing ahead with its own same-sex marriage bill.

Following a recent consultation, the Scottish Government is set to introduce a final version of the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Bill to the Scottish Parliament later this summer.

First Minister and SNP leader Alex Salmond has already insisted the bill poses no threat to religious liberties.

“We are making it absolutely clear that no Christian church or any domination for that matter, or any religion, or practitioner, or celebrant will be forced to take part in any such marriage, it will just mean people will have equality before the law,” Mr Salmond said last September.

Just like David Cameron, the leader of the Scottish Conservatives, Ruth Davison, is a firm supporter of marriage equality.