House of Commons · Westminster Hall
12 June 2025 · 14 other contributors · 14,373 words
Opened by Sarah Edwards Lab Tamworth
Responding minister: Alex Davies-Jones
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Sarah Edwards raised concerns about humanist marriage in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
The Government should take the simple step of granting legal recognition to humanist marriages based on the overwhelming support from public consultations and the precedent set in other UK jurisdictions.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Despite conducting tens of thousands of ceremonies annually, including weddings and funerals, Humanist UK-trained celebrants are legally recognised only in some UK jurisdictions. In England and Wales, couples must undergo a separate civil marriage ceremony to gain legal status, imposing financial burdens and administrative challenges.
Emphasized the need for proper and comprehensive reform, considering the Law Commission's concerns about making changes on its own. Agreed that humanists are not asking for a huge change in the law.
Andrew Cooper proposed legalising humanist marriage in England and Wales, arguing against the government's claim of considering marriage law comprehensively. He pointed out that other religious groups have gained the power to perform marriages while humanists are still waiting for recognition. Asked if piecemeal reform could happen in parallel with broader reforms.
Asked the Government not to wait for wholesale marriage reform but to take forward legal recognition of humanist marriages given the clear case for it.
Described her humanist wedding and the complications of not having legal recognition, citing Scotland's success with humanist marriages.
Expressed desire for legally recognised humanist marriages, noting delays by previous government and lack of ambition to address the issue. Asked if measures already exist for Quakers, noting that humanists are seeking equality before the law.
He shared his personal experience of having a humanist marriage which did not feel right for him or his wife. He urged the Government to provide the same opportunity that has existed in Scotland for 20 years. Secured this debate. The hon. Member discusses the importance of recognising humanist marriages, noting that Scotland and Northern Ireland already legally recognise such ceremonies.
Highlighted his own experience with a humanist ceremony that was not legally binding. Discussed the growth in non-religious individuals and the importance of legal recognition for those who identify as humanists.
Explained that humanism is a belief system without supernatural elements, which shapes the beliefs of individuals when they choose to marry. Criticized the Government for delaying the legal recognition of humanist marriages despite having the power under existing laws. Secured this debate. She highlights the significance of legal recognition for humanists and expresses support for measures to allow humanist marriages, given ongoing delays.
Stressed that all types of marriage ceremonies should be treated equally under the law, highlighted discrepancies in legal systems across Britain, shared personal experience from Toronto where he was legally married without a separate registration process.
Asked why humanist marriages are not legally recognised despite being facilitated for other types of marriage. Suggested that the debate should focus on the nature and commitment of marriage, allowing people to marry as they see fit.
As a humanist, she believes everyone should have the right to marry in accordance with their personal beliefs. Humanist marriages are legally recognised elsewhere in the UK but not in England and Wales.
Supported legal recognition for non-religious marriage ceremonies and noted personal experience as a Quaker who can legally marry in their rites.
Served under the chairship, thanked hon. friends for securing the debate and discussed how legal recognition of humanist marriages would positively impact LGBT couples.
Secured this debate. Expressed disappointment at the lack of clarity on the timeframe and urged action to bring an end to this unnecessary injustice.
Government Response
Alex Davies-JonesThe Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice
The Minister acknowledges the strength of feeling around legally recognising humanist weddings and the importance of this issue. She thanks all hon. Members for their contributions and expresses understanding of the frustrations felt by humanists over delays in reform. The Government recognise the contribution humanists make to society, including campaigning for social justice and equality. Although the state has a responsibility to ensure clarity around the legal status of marriage, they believe that the conversation can go further to reflect the importance of marriage as an institution. Stressed that the Government cannot ignore the Law Commission’s report, which identified complex recommendations. Confirmed officials are working on this at pace, and an update will be provided soon. The Minister acknowledged the strength of feeling regarding humanist weddings but emphasized the need to consider all aspects carefully.