Cousin Marriages Under Scrutiny In UK Parliament

Ishtiaq Ahmed

Bradford:Former Conservative Minister Richard Holden MP has called for a ban on first-cousin marriages in the UK.

Mr. Holden introduced his Marriage (Prohibited Degrees of Relationship) Bill through the 10-minute rule process, which allows a backbench MP to propose a new bill with a brief speech. He argued that children of first- cousin marriages face a higher risk of birth defects, and that banning such marriages would protect public health.

However, Mr Iqbal Mohammad, an Independent MP representing Dewsbury and Batley in West Yorkshire, advocated for a different approach. Rather than “stigmatising” cousin marriages, he suggested addressing health concerns through more positive measures, such as genetic screening, similar to initiatives in Arab Gulf countries.

The current law prohibits marriage between siblings, parents, or children, but does not extend this restriction to first cousins.

Speaking in the Commons, Mr. Iqbal Mohammad acknowledged the documented health risks associated with first-cousin marriages and emphasised the need for greater public awareness. He also stressed the importance of combating practices such as virginity testing and forced marriages while safeguarding women’s freedom of choice. He stated:

“The way to address this issue is not by empowering the state to ban adults from marrying each other, especially as such a ban would likely be ineffective and unenforceable. Instead, we need to approach it as a health awareness and cultural issue, particularly in cases where women are forced into marriages against their will.”

Mr. Iqbal Mohammad MP highlighted that an estimated 35% to 50% of all sub-Saharan African populations accept or prefer cousin marriages, with the practice being “extremely common” in the Middle East and South Asia.

He pointed out that cousin marriages are often valued for strengthening family bonds and improving financial stability. He added:

“Rather than stigmatising cousin marriages, a more positive approach would involve facilitating advanced genetic screening for prospective couples, as is common in Arab Gulf countries, along with targeted health education programs for communities where the practice is prevalent.”

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Downing Street acknowledged expert advice on the risks of first-cousin marriage but indicated no plans to change the law, citing other legislative priorities.

Bills introduced through the 10-minute rule are unlikely to pass without government backing due to limited parliamentary time.

While open and honest debates are essential, Mr. Holden’s focus on cousin marriages seems to disproportionately target British Muslims. This approach appears to overlook key developments: cousin marriages among British Muslims are significantly declining.

Third- and fourth-generation British Muslims are increasingly stepping away from family-arranged marriages, finding partners in educational institutions, workplaces, and social settings.

This natural progression renders heavy-handed legal intervention unnecessary. Proposals like those from Mr. Holden risk infringing on personal freedoms and the right to choose a marriage partner.

Additionally, they could exacerbate perceptions of Islamophobia, racism, and prejudice, even if unintentionally.

Regarding Mr. Holden’s concerns about health risks, a more constructive approach would involve investing in public education, raising awareness, and offering genetic counseling to address potential risks effectively. Heavy-handed legal measures are neither required nor justified.

The article is the writer’s opinion, it may or may not adhere to the organization’s editorial policy.

The author is a British citizen of Pakistani origin with a keen interest in Pakistani and international affairs.