VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Marriage: Reform

Asked by James CartlidgeConservativeMinistry of JusticeTabled Answered 28 April 2026UIN 128708

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, whether his department plans to recognise independent celebrants as part of marriage law reform.

Answered by Alex Davies-Jones

The Government recognises the contribution that independent celebrants make to the wedding industry. We have been seeking their views, together with a range of others, in order to inform the development of a consultation. We will invite views as to allowing independent officiants to carry out legally binding weddings and the potential consequences of this as part of the consultation

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim