§ Mr. BrowneTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will publish the results of the consultation undertaken by the Registrar General on civil marriages outwith registration offices; and if he will make a statement. [54621]
§ Mr. McLeishI am placing a copy of the results of the consultation in the Library. Widespread support was expressed for the idea of extending the choice of couples to have civil marriages other than in local registration offices. The responses emphasised the need to retain the seemliness and dignity of the marriage ceremony. A number of useful comments were made about civil marriage venues which will aid the drafting of appropriate statutory provisions and of practical guidance to the registration service. The Government would wish to see the proposals carried forward, and hope that the Scottish Parliament will consider enactment of appropriate legislation.