CIVIC bigwigs are backing a ban on same-sex weddings because gay people "should not be seen as equal".

Bromley Council is denying homosexuals the chance to hold civil partnership ceremonies at its register office or council properties, despite neighbouring boroughs welcoming same-sex couples.

Instead is will only record relationships, as it must under laws due to be introduced through the Civil Partnerships Act in December, which simply means signing a register.

Former leisure and culture portfolio holder Councillor Tim Stevens took the decision in March, saying it was because of a "lack of demand", though he later admitted he abhors the idea of marriage between two men.

He rejects any suggestion of homophobia and said the decision was under constant review.

The move has gone down well with Tory councillors who tried to overturn plans to allow same-sex marriages in October 2003.

Current mayor Councillor Joan Wykes provoked outrage at the time, when she said: "Marriage is about procreation and contributing to society.

"However, with same-sex partnerships, this doesn't contribute to anything apart from trying to get what perks they can."

Cllr Wykes was unavailable for comment this week, but Councillor Colin Bloom said: "Gay marriages are immoral and undermine family values in society.

"The institution of marriage should be between a man and a woman only.

"I'm comfortable with the position Bromley Council has taken.

"Whilst I may be in a minority amongst the politically-correct enlightened elite, I probably echo the feelings of the majority of people in Bromley."

Council leader Stephen Carr said: "They shouldn't be seen as equal. Gay marriage undermines our society and family values."

Adam Lott, 25, and Ian Haylock, 35, are one of several homosexual couples hoping to get hitched when new laws come into force in December.

Mr Lott, who works for Bromley Primary Care Trust, has attacked the "prejudicial" ban and says he and his partner will now look elsewhere.