§ Mr. PikeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what factors led to the imposition of the age limit for the appointment of registrars of births, deaths and marriages; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. SackvilleI have been asked to reply.
Generally, the statutory age restrictions for appointment as registrar of births, deaths and marriages are 21 years minimum and 65 years maximum. The minimum age restriction was set to reflect the special personal responsibilities and liabilities which accompany statutory office of registrar and the sensitivity of the duties. The upper limit is related to the normal retirement age for men but may be waived if there is no other suitable candidate for appointment.