Report No. 15

Clause 21

Sub-clause (1).-The following changes have been made:-

(i) Instead of the words "form and ceremony", the words "form or ceremony" have been used. Compare existing section 25, Christian Marriage Act.

(ii) Unnecessary matter has been omitted.

(iii) The existing section requires that the witnesses should be "credible". This has been omitted, as unnecessary. It is not contained in the section relating to licensed Ministers (section 25, Christian Marriage Act).

(iv) The words "besides the Marriage Registrar" have been omitted as unnecessary.1

(v) A proviso has been added to the effect that the marriage will not be complete and binding unless each party says to the other the prescribed formula. This follows the corresponding provision in the Special Marriage Act.

Sub-clause (2).-This is new and follows the corresponding provision in the Special Marriage Act.

It has been made clear that the place where the Marriage Registrar can be called should be situated in his district (that is, within his jurisdiction).

1. Compare clause 20 and the notes on that clause.