Christian Social Policy charity CARE has welcomed the Tenth National Marriage week which was launched in Parliament this morning.

Parliament played host at 11am February 5th for the official launch of the Tenth National Marriage Week 2007 (7-14th February). Speakers at the launch included the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams; Anastasia deWaal, Head of Family Policy at CIVITAS; and Chief Rabbi, Jonathan Sacks; Broadcaster and novelist, Anne Atkins; and Chair of Centre for Social Justice, Rt Hon' Iain Duncan Smith MP.

David Cameron Leader of the Conservative party will be supporting National Marriage Week by speaking at the Fourth relationship Skills Conference on Tuesday February 6th.

In a statement of support for Marriage Week PM Blair said, "Like millions of people I can vouch for the benefits that marriage can bring to your life. It can be a tremendous source of happiness and stability as well as providing a loving environment to bring up children ... marriage continues to play a vital role in the health and strength of our society. It is good to have a chance to recognise and reflect upon its importance".

Dan Boucher, CARE's Director of Parliamentary Affairs, said "Given its undisputed positive impact, with all kinds of public policy benefits, we believe that government should work to support and strengthen the institution of marriage in Britain today both through fiscal policy and through greater investment 'proactively' in marriage preparation as well as 'reactively' through marriage guidance counselling.

"At the beginning of National Marriage week we would urge the government to back its rhetorical commitment to the value of marriage with robust marriage friendly policies."