UK MP Richard Holden Calls for Ban on First-Cousin Marriages Over Health and Cultural Concerns
Conservative MP Richard Holden has proposed a ban on first-cousin marriages in the UK, citing health risks and cultural issues linked to the practice. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, Holden emphasized that prohibiting such unions would protect public health by reducing the risk of birth defects among children born from these marriages.
Currently, UK law prohibits marriage between close relatives like siblings, parents, or children, but allows unions between first cousins. Holden pointed out that while first-cousin marriage is uncommon in Western nations, certain diaspora communities, such as British Pakistanis and Irish Travellers, have high rates of these unions, ranging from 20% to 40%.
The MP for Basildon and Billericay referenced studies showing that children of first cousins face double the risk of serious genetic disorders compared to children of unrelated parents. He also argued that the practice often undermines women’s freedom in traditional clan-based societies.
“Strict honour codes in such communities can suppress individuality, with women often facing social isolation or violence for opposing first-cousin marriages,” Holden told MPs. He added that the practice is “not conducive to modern British society.”
However, independent MP Iqbal Mohamed countered the proposal, arguing that banning cousin marriages would be ineffective and difficult to enforce. Instead, he advocated for health awareness campaigns and advanced genetic screening to address the issue.
“Rather than stigmatizing communities, a positive approach involving education and genetic testing would yield better results,” said Mohamed, MP for Dewsbury and Batley.
Downing Street acknowledged existing expert advice on the risks of cousin marriages but confirmed there are no plans to change current laws. Holden introduced the proposal under the 10-minute rule process, which allows MPs to present new bills in short speeches. However, such bills rarely progress without government backing.
The debate comes weeks after experts in Pakistan highlighted a rise in genetic disorders due to the prevalence of cousin marriages. Recent reports reveal that over 65% of marriages in Pakistan are between cousins, with some communities recording rates as high as 85%.
This renewed focus on first-cousin marriages sheds light on the need for public health awareness and cultural sensitivity to address associated risks while respecting individual freedoms.
