A large majority of MPs on Tuesday voted in favour of a motion which will end the escape clause allowing civil servants who oppose gay marriage to refuse to carry them out.

According to research by gay rights campaign group COC, some 58 local councils employ a total of around 100 registrars who refuse to marry same-sex couples. Nearly all are orthodox Christians.

Until now, they have been able to remain in their job because of a get-out clause for people with religious objections.

The legislation to end this provision, drawn up by the Liberal democratic party D66, will now go to the upper house of parliament for its approval.