On 18th November 2004 The Civil Partnership Act 2004 was passed and it was supposed to be effected from 5th December 2005. This Act gives same sex couples the same legal rights as other normal married couples. These rights include property rights, parental rights as well as pension rights. Under this Act, same sex couples are entitled to receive joint state pensions and benefits. The Act also recognizes the rights of the same sex couples under the inheritance law. In case of death of either partner, the living partner in a same sex marriage is also entitled to compensation. Same sex couples must organize a civil ceremony for announcing their mutual commitments. The couple has to sign an official document at a Registry Office in front of the Registrar and two witnesses. This is not exactly the same as a marriage ceremony but it is a process whereby the commitment of the couple to each other is recognized. It is like a marriage contract
