Social Security Benefits: Polygamy
Commons · Question 2859 · Tabled 19 May 2026 · Department for Work and Pensions · Official record
Answered 1 Jun 2026
Question
Asked by Andrew Snowden
To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, for what reason the benefits system continues to recognise polygamy in social security regulations.
Answer
Answered by Sir Stephen Timms, 1 Jun 2026
Polygamous marriages are illegal in the UK. Immigration rules have generally prevented the formation of polygamous households in this country since 1988. Benefit support is only available where the marriage took place in a country where the practice is le...