I am absolutely delighted that the Marriage Bill passed its Second Reading on Friday.
Banning child marriage will ensure children stay in education or training until they are 18 – giving them the best chance in life.
Over 90% of reported child marriage cases only involve a religious marriage, and not a civil ceremony.
That’s why it is so important that my Bill covers both civil and religious marriages.
My Bill will also fulfil the UK’s international obligations to end child marriage under the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and help us in our goal to end child marriage and promote girls’ education around the world.
Passing its second reading means that it can continue its progress through Parliament.
Thank you to all the supporters of the Bill – helping to end child marriage in the UK and supporting the UK’s campaign to end child marriage around the world.
