Independent MP Iqbal Mohamed has opposed UK calls to ban first-cousin marriages, stating they should not be stigmatized, BBC reports.
Independent MP Iqbal Mohamed speaks against a ban on first cousin marriage in the Commons. pic.twitter.com/zTdQJpu76m
— PoliticsJOE (@PoliticsJOE_UK) December 10, 2024Experts have raised concerns about the health risks of cousin marriages, linking them to genetic disorders like thalassemia and cystic fibrosis.
Despite its deep cultural roots, this practice poses a considerable risk to children’s health.
Conservative former minister Richard Holden has advocated for a ban to protect public health. He introduced proposals in Parliament, highlighting the increased risk of birth defects in children from first-cousin marriages.
Labour have REFUSED to support a bill to ban first-cousin marriage in the UK, brought forward by Conservative MP Ric Holden.
Shocking. This practice has no place in British society. pic.twitter.com/LMcCd5wklS
— Emily Hewertson 🇬🇧 (@emilyhewertson) December 10, 2024UK laws currently allow marriages between first cousins while prohibiting those to a sibling, parent, or child. Holden noted that such marriages are rare in the West but prevalent at 20-40% rates in some diaspora communities.
He cited studies showing doubled risks of severe disorders in children from these unions and mentioned the threats to women’s freedom under strict honour codes.
Holden criticized the practice as unsuitable for modern British society, linking it to broader societal and democratic values.
Conversely, Mohamed argued against a ban, suggesting it would be ineffective. He recommended addressing the issues through educational programs to raise risk awareness.
He proposed approaching the matter as a health and cultural issue, particularly addressing forced marriages. Mohamed recommended genetic testing and health education programs targeting communities with common cousin marriage.
As per Sky News, he suggested adopting screening practices from Arab countries in the Persian Gulf. Mohamed also noted that cousin marriages are widely accepted in sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia and are often seen as positive for strengthening family bonds and financial stability.
