FOUR Dorset Tory MPs were among those who voted against a bill to introduce gay marriage in Northern Ireland.
They included Christchurch MP Sir Chris Chope, who has recently been embroiled in rows over his blocking of bills on female genital mutilation and upskirting.
He was joined in the lobby by the MP for South Dorset Richard Drax, Poole MP Sir Robert Syms, MP for Mid-Dorset and North Poole Michael Tomlinson and the MP for New Forest West Sir Desmond Swayne.
Despite their opposition, MPs in the House of Commons backed the same-sex marriage amendment by 383 votes to 73.
The same four MPs also voted against extending the right to abortion in Northern Ireland.
However, this amendment was backed 332 to 99.
The bill would see the changes introduced only if the Stormont assembly has not been restored by October 21, and the assembly will have the power to reverse the changes if it forms later.
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