STORY
The Government has announced sweeping reforms to modernise wedding laws across England and Wales, aiming to give couples far greater freedom over how and where they get married. The proposals, described as the biggest overhaul of marriage law in over 180 years, are expected to boost the economy by £535 million over the next decade, support up to 12,000 jobs and bring in more than £100 million in additional tax revenue.
Under the plans, couples will be allowed to hold weddings in a much wider range of venues, from beaches and gardens to historic sites, provided the location meets certain standards of dignity and appropriateness. The reforms will also make the officiant, rather than the building, the focus of regulation, simplifying the process and reducing costs for couples. Religious ceremonies, including those for Sikh, Muslim, Buddhist and Hindu couples, will be able to gain legal recognition more easily, while for the first time humanist and other non-religious organisations will be permitted to conduct legally binding marriages.
Ministers believe the changes will not only modernise outdated rules but also help revive the wedding industry after a challenging few years. Baroness Levitt KC, Minister for Family Law, said the reforms would give couples the chance to “have the wedding day of their dreams” while maintaining the solemnity and dignity of the occasion. Alex Davies-Jones, Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, added that the plans would sweep away unnecessary restrictions and give couples the freedom to celebrate their commitment in a way that reflects their own values.