We cannot tolerate child marriage. It is child abuse.” Says MP Selaine Saxby
In England & Wales the Law states that a person must be 18 to get married. However, there is a loophole which stipulates that, with parental consent, a person can get married at the age of 16 or 17. This is despite not being old enough to serve on a jury, make a Will or even buy a National Lottery ticket. In recent years activists have campaigned to close this loophole, arguing that the law as it stands is leaving vulnerable children at risk.
Shockingly, over 25% of forced marriage cases as reported by the Home Office involved individuals under 18 years old in 2020.
The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Bill is a private members Bill put forward by MP Pauline Latham to make provision about the minimum age for marriage. The Bill had its second reading in the House of Commons on Friday 19th November 2021. There was very little disagreement about changing the law to protect those at risk of forced child marriage and it is extremely rare that MPs in the commons widely agree on an issue.
Mrs Latham seeks a ‘blanket ban’ for all child marriage, and hopes that this will “send a clear message to everyone that child marriage is unacceptable”. It is hoped that such a Law in England & Wales will lead to other countries following suit, and other countries will look to protect their children from the outdated current Laws.
It is felt by campaigners that criminalisation of adults who aid, abet or procure marriages for children is needed. Whilst forced marriage became a specific offence under the Law in England & Wales in 2014, it is unclear at this stage whether the current Law can be amended to include the offence in relation to children, or whether a new criminal offence is needed altogether.
The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Bill will now continue its process through Parliament, to hopefully become Law in the not too distant future.
If you have concerns that you or someone you know is being subject to a forced marriage, our experienced, friendly family law team are here to support you.
Contact us on 0114 218 4000 or via email at info@tayloremmet.co.uk to find out more on how we can help you.
