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<p>The Government consulted in 2014 on marriages by non-religious belief organisations.
This concluded that the matter was complex, and that by allowing Humanists to solemnise
marriages in unrestricted locations, the Government would create a provision for Humanists
that would not be available to all groups. Its summary assessment of costs and benefits
was published in the response, which can be found at <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/marriages-by-non-religious-belief-organisations"
target="_blank">https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/marriages-by-non-religious-belief-organisations</a>.</p><p>
</p><p>To ensure we are considering the implications of changing the law on marriage
on all groups, we invited the Law Commission to undertake a review which is currently
underway and is expected to report in July of this year. By looking at the law comprehensively,
the Law Commission will seek to put forward proposals that would ensure that, insofar
as possible, groups and couples are all subject to the same rules, costs, and the
same level of regulation. That reform is not possible by only authorising Humanist
weddings, even on a temporary basis pending the Law Commission report. The Government
will reconsider this issue on the basis of the Law Commission's recommendations.</p>
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