United Kingdom lawmaker Iqbal Mohamed has opposed a proposal by former Conservative minister Richard Holden to ban first-cousin marriages.

Holden argued that such marriages increase the risk of birth defects in children and are incompatible with modern British society, citing disproportionately high rates within certain diaspora communities.

He also raised concerns about forced marriages within these communities. Mohamed counters that a ban would be ineffective and unenforceable.

He suggested focusing on public health education programs and increased genetic testing for prospective couples to mitigate the health risks associated with consanguineous marriages, rather than imposing a ban.

Mohamed pointed out the prevalence of first-cousin marriage in various parts of the world, including sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, where it’s often viewed positively for strengthening family ties and financial stability.