Written evidence from Mrs Janice Joyson [HAB0164]

• The public commitment made in wedding vows gives families great stability. The Government should recognise and promote this, rather than undermine marriage by offering equivalent rights to those who choose not to be committed.

• Family breakdown is exceedingly expensive for society, costing the public purse over £50bn each year. This will only worsen if the special legal status of marriage is not maintained and promoted.

• When couples get married, they promise lifelong commitment to one another. This is why the law makes provision for the death of a spouse. Such rights should not automatically apply to cohabitees who have made no such promises.

July 2021