The new Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act came into force on 27th February 2023, preventing 16 and 17 year olds from marrying or entering into a civil partnership, even with parental consent.
The Act makes it a criminal offence to exploit vulnerable children by arranging a marriage, under any circumstances whether or not force is used. Those found guildty of arranging child marriages face sentences of up to 7 years in prison.
In 2021, the Forced Marriage Unit gave advice and support in 118 cases related to possible forced marriage involving victims below 18 years of age. The act is an essential step forward in our mission to protect women and girls.
The benefits of this legislation are wide and varied. Given that child marriage is also often associated with domestic abuse, leaving education early, limited career opportunities and serios physical and mental health issues, the passing of the act is all the more welcome, ensuring women and girls are safe everywhere, at home, online and on the streets.
The work of Pauline Latham MP, Sajid Javid MP and Baroness Sugg over many years is to be congratulated; delivering a crucial piece of legislation.
