PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
Marriage: Coronavirus (13 July 2020)
Question Asked
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, whether he plans to extend the period of validity for notices of marriage for weddings unable to take place as a result of the covid-19 lockdown restrictions.
Asked by:
Mark Tami (Labour)
Asked by:
Mark Tami (Labour)
Answer
We understand the frustration couples who have had to postpone their wedding or civil partnership must be feeling.
The requirement to solemnize a marriage within twelve months of giving notice to marry is set out in primary legislation, which does not provide for extending this period. It would require primary legislation to change this and we continue to explore potential legislative opportunities. In the meantime, the fees charged by local authorities for giving notice can be reduced, waived or refunded on compassionate grounds or in cases of hardship. It is for each local authority to determine when this can be applied.
Answered by:
Alex Chalk (Conservative)
21 July 2020
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