Overview

This bill aims to ensure that birth and death registrations in Wales can be completed in both Welsh and English, providing equal access to these services in both languages. It also allows for certificates to be issued in either Welsh or English, meeting the needs of Welsh speakers.

Description

The bill amends the Births and Deaths Registration Act 1953. Key changes include:

• Bilingual Registration: Allows for the registration of births and deaths using declarations or statements in Welsh, alongside English. The Registrar General will maintain bilingual registers.
• Single-Language Certificates: Permits the issuing of birth and death certificates in either Welsh or English only, if requested.
• Consequential Amendments: The Schedule includes various consequential amendments to the 1953 Act to ensure consistency with the changes introduced by the bill, primarily relating to the language of registration entries and the issuance of certificates.

Government Spending

The bill is unlikely to significantly increase government spending, though there will be some administrative costs associated with implementing bilingual systems and training staff. No specific figures are available in the provided text.

Groups Affected

• Welsh Speakers: This bill directly benefits Welsh speakers by guaranteeing their right to register births and deaths, and receive certificates, in their native language.
• Registrars and Registrar General: These individuals and offices will be responsible for implementing the new bilingual system, requiring adjustments to their processes and potentially additional training.
• Individuals requesting birth or death certificates: They will have the choice to receive certificates in either Welsh or English.

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