VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Marriage: Relatives

Asked by Mr Richard HoldenConservativeDepartment of Health and Social CareTabled Answered 12 January 2026UIN 89643

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether he has had discussions with Cabinet colleagues on the potential merits of banning first cousin marriage.

Answered by Dr Zubir Ahmed

The Department of Health and Social Care recognises the increased health risks for children of first cousins and we are in contact with other Government departments, including the Ministry of Justice, to provide further information on these as part of wider discussions.

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