asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of the recent decision of Lord Merriman in Apt, otherwise Magnus versus Apt, he will introduce legislation to make it clear in what conditions proxy marriages are to be recognised as valid.

I am not aware that any further elucidation of the law on this subject is needed. The effect of the decision is, I am advised, that the matter is regulated by the law of the place where the ceremony is performed.

Will my right hon. Friend make it clear that it is not his policy to encourage proxy marriages?

Proxy marriages are not legal when performed in this country.

Does not the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that the effect of this decision will be that a girl in this country can get married in the Argentine without ever leaving London?

If she is prepared to take the husband on trust, why should I interfere?