Amid a debate on gay rights in Italy, Italian fashion designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana have put designs of same-sex couples with children on bags and shirts in their new line. In 2015, Dolce came in for criticism when he used the term “womb rental” for surrogacy, Reuters reported. His comments angered many, including singer Elton John, who threatened to boycott D&G’s goods. Surrogacy is banned in Italy. Social media posts now show the designers doing a U-turn on their views.

Members of the Italian Parliament in January discussed a Bill that would give gay couples legal recognition and adoption rights. The issue has led to protests in the country, both by those who support the bill and by those against it. The phrase “wombs for rent” was used as a mass cry at a rally against the Bill held in Rome.

A vote on the Bill is due this month. Many other Western European countries have recognised same-sex civil unions.