Hello again, Adrian I think it is the word "compulsory" which is giving the difficulty here. Registration was compulsory in the sense that it was not optional - i.e. it was not a matter of parental choice (as baptism was and is), but a requirement under the law of the land. Despite its limitations, the 1836 Act was clear in its purpose - to produce a register of *every* birth. It was clearly hoped that the financial inducement offered to Registrars of 2/6 each for the first 20 entries in the registers in each year and 1/- for every one thereafter would be sufficient encouragement for them to be zealous in their pursuit of every birth in their District. Best wishes Caroline > How could it be compulsory for the parents if they could not be > penalised? > As you say, in the early days it was the responsibility of the > Registrar to seek out and deal with the registration! > > Adrian >