Petition · past parliament · Ministry of Justice

Change the marriage law in England/Wales from registered buildings to celebrants

Closed 88 signatures

What the petition asks

The Scottish system of registered celebrants is much simpler and more suitable to modern-day requirements than the current English/Welsh system of registered buildings, it also offers greater flexibility to couples wanting a more personal and intimate wedding.
Currently in England and Wales couples must choose either a religious service in a church or a wholly secular service in a secular building, where they are not allowed anything even vaguely religious including music. Under the Scottish system, couples may choose any venue in which a celebrant is willing to conduct a marriage service and a religious or civil ceremony. This means that couples can choose a religious ceremony in a greater choice of venues and administration is simpler (and likely to be cheaper) This will also benefit couples who wish to have a more personalised day potentially in a location that is special to the couple and their relationship.

Timeline

22 Apr 2022 Petition opened for signatures
5 Nov 2022 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 88
Status Closed
Department Ministry of Justice
Opened 22 Apr 2022
Closed 5 Nov 2022

Follow this petition

Sign in to get an email when the government responds, a debate is scheduled or held, or the petition closes.

Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.