· 59% of the British population agree that "even though it might not work out for some people, marriage is still the best kind of relationship.

· 69% agree that "too many people just drift into marriage without really thinking about it."

· 9% agree that "there is no point getting married - it's only a piece of paper".

· When asked whether they thought it was a good idea for couples who intend to get married to live together first, 56% thought that it was "a good idea".

· 67% thought it acceptable for a couple to cohabit, even if they don't intend to marry.

· 54% agreed that "people who want children ought to get married".

· 97% believe that a cohabiting father should have the right to consent to his child's medical treatment.

· 93% believe that a cohabitant should have the right to the family home after the death of their partner.

· 56% of people incorrectly believe that unmarried couples living together 'definitely' or 'probably' have the same rights as married people.

Reference

Barlow, A., Duncan, S., James, G. and Park, A. (2001) Just a piece of paper? Marriage and cohabitation. In British Social Attitudes: Public policy, social ties. The 18th Report: 2001-2002 Edition. (London: Sage.)

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The Nuffield Foundation and the Department for Constitutional Affairs supported One Plus One's development of material for married or not. The legal information on this site was checked by Sarah Forster, with assistance from Diane McBrinn.