SCHEDULES

SCHEDULE 3Interpretation of legislation

PART 1Existing England and Wales legislation

2Interpretation of legislation about couples living together as if married

1

In existing England and Wales legislation—

a

a reference to persons who are not married but are living together as a married couple is to be read as including a reference to a same sex couple who are not married but are living together as a married couple;

b

a reference to a person who is living with another person as if they were married is to be read as including a reference to a person who is living with another person of the same sex as if they were married.

2

Where sub-paragraph (1) requires a reference to be read in a particular way, any related reference (such as a reference to persons formerly living together as a married couple) is to be read accordingly.

3

For the purposes of sub-paragraphs (1) and (2) it does not matter how a reference is expressed.