Tying the knot: reforming weddings law in England and Wales

Closes 24 Sep 2026

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Chapter 7: Regulation of Officiants

30. Do you agree with the Law Commissions definition of ‘fit and proper’?

They define a “fit and proper” person as someone who is of good character, has not been convicted of any offence that the regulator considers incompatible with the role, is at least 18 years old, has undertaken training on the legal aspects of being an officiant and who understands the legal requirements for conducting a legally binding wedding and performing the role.

Please explain your reasoning.

If you answered “No”, how should the definition of ‘fit and proper’ be expanded to ensure only suitable officiants are nominated? Please explain your reasoning.

31. Do you think there are further measures the Government could introduce, in addition to the monitoring requirements proposed by the Law Commission, to help identify poor practice?

Please explain your reasoning.

If you answered “Yes”, please explain what mechanisms could be implemented.

32. Do you agree that all officiants (excluding Anglican clergy) should be required periodically to renew their authorisation every 5 years?

If you answered “No”, what renewal period do you think is appropriate for officiants’ authorisation?

33. Do you agree that officiants who fail to apply the dignity framework, the fit and proper person standards and their other duties and responsibilities should be subject to sanctions, including deauthorisation?

Please explain your reasoning.

34. Do you agree with having a central regulator monitor complaints for nominated, independent and maritime officiants?

Please explain your reasoning.

35. Do you agree that membership organisations should be responsible for monitoring independent officiants, subject to oversight by the central regulator?

Please explain your reasoning.

36. Do you agree that the proposed eligibility criteria (relating to organisational structure and their role in appointing and overseeing officiants) is sufficient?

If you answered "No", do you have any proposals to expand these requirements?

37. Do you agree that the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) should act as the membership organisation for maritime officiants?

Please explain your reasoning.

38. Do you agree that, as with belief groups, membership organisations should be responsible for delivering training, subject to the central regulator establishing the standard for training?

If you answered “No”, who should be responsible for delivering training?

39. Do you agree with the Law Commission that the GRO would be the organisation most suited to undertake the role of central regulator?

If you answered “No”, please explain who should take on this role?