Overview

This bill aims to modernize the marriage registration system in England and Wales by creating a centralized, electronically accessible register. It simplifies the documentation process for registering marriages and introduces penalties for non-compliance.

Description

The bill grants the Secretary of State the power to create regulations updating the Marriage Act 1949. Key changes include:

• Centralized Electronic Register: A new, electronic national register of marriages will be created, improving accessibility and record-keeping.
• Simplified Documentation: The process for registering marriages will be streamlined, potentially using a single document instead of two.
• Marriage Schedule/Document: New documents ("marriage schedule" and "marriage document") will be introduced to facilitate registration.
• Registrar General's Powers: The Registrar General will be given the power to create further regulations on document format, corrections, and record-keeping.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failure to deliver required documents could result in a fine.
• Repeal of Older Acts: The Marriage of British Subjects (Facilities) Acts 1915 and 1916 may be amended or repealed.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify any direct impact on government spending. The costs associated with implementing the new system, including the development and maintenance of the electronic register, are not detailed within the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Couples getting married in England and Wales: They will experience a potentially simplified marriage registration process.
• Clergy: Changes to the documentation process will affect how they register marriages.
• Registrars: Their roles and responsibilities in marriage registration will be altered.
• Registrar General: They will be responsible for the creation and maintenance of the new centralized register and related regulations.
• Individuals failing to comply with regulations: They may face fines.

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