Local MP Steve Brine spoke up for couples prevented from marrying at the present time due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Speaking in Cabinet Office questions, he asked Ministers whether they would consider a temporary signal of intent for couples who might otherwise lose out should something happen to one partner before they can legally marry.
He asked Paymaster General, Penny Mordaunt MP; "Thousands of couples planning to tie the knot this year have had their plans postponed by the pandemic. The next few weeks, as we approach midsummer day, would of course have been peak season. Through no fault of their own, they will have none of the legal protections of marriage until next year—maybe longer—when they can reschedule. Will the Government consider creating a temporary declaration of intent for those couples, backed by the state, so that they are not prejudiced in law or taxation before they finally take the plunge?"
Responding, Ms Mordaunt said; "May I thank my hon. Friend for the campaign he has been running? I have spoken at length with him on many Cabinet Office calls about the cases he has in his constituency. I know that some of his cases, and those of many hon. Members across the House, will involve older people who are taking greater risks. Many people will have gone back into work for the NHS and are deeply concerned, should they become infected, what that would mean for their fiancé/e. The Justice Secretary is apprised of the issue. I think there are some difficulties with the particular route my hon. Friend sets out, but I know that my right hon. Friend will be bringing forward measures very soon."
The MP added after the debate; "It was an encouraging reply but I fear the wheels of legislation, which is what I understand would be required here, are just going to be too slow to help here. We will keep talking to the Justice Secretary and other Ministers to work on this important issue."
Pictured/watch; Steve asks his question and on his feet in the House.
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