A recent pronouncement by the UK government, suggesting benefits to marriages between first cousins, has ignited controversy. While permitted in various cultures and religions, and despite research into associated risks, the government’s NHS has come under fire for promoting such unions. The NHS’s comparison of genetic risks with those of late parenthood or maternal substance use has particularly angered critics.
Legally sanctioned since the 16th century, first-cousin marriages are not restricted by existing laws in the UK. However, Conservative MP Richard Holden has proposed legislation to ban them, based on concerns about children’s health. The bill is scheduled for further discussion in Parliament. The NHS England’s Genomics Education Programme published an article examining whether to ban such marriages, while also outlining potential advantages, such as familial and financial benefits, while also admitting to the increase in the risk of congenital diseases. Critics, including Bradford’s NHS, have voiced concerns. Ayesha Ali-Khan, whose brothers died due to health complications linked to this, blames the practice and wishes to prevent others from suffering the same fate. Anita Prem, from Freedom Charity, views these marriages as a potential threat.
Studies reveal that children from such marriages have a higher chance of inheriting recessive disorders, along with increased risks of speech, language, and developmental issues. While rates of cousin marriages decreased in the 20th century, they remain relatively common in some communities, such as in parts of Bradford, where nearly half of Pakistani women have married their first or second cousins.