Kemi Badenoch eyes cousin marriage ban to tackle integration concerns
Kemi Badenoch has signalled she may ban marriage between cousins if she becomes prime minister. The policy would target certain cultural practices in British Pakistani communities. She also plans to review restrictions on burkas and other face coverings as part of a wider push for social cohesion. Badenoch's proposed ban follows concerns about the health and societal impacts of cousin marriages. Studies link such unions to higher risks of genetic disorders, including cystic fibrosis. In parts of Bradford, nearly half of Pakistani mothers are married to first or second cousins.
The Tory MP Richard Holden backs the idea, arguing that these marriages harm health and weaken social integration. Badenoch has also criticised sharia courts and described cousin marriage as 'reinforcing separatism' within some communities.
Meanwhile, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust has taken a different approach by hiring Urdu-speaking nurses. Their role includes supporting families involved in cousin marriages. Despite Badenoch's stance, no British city or region has introduced measures to restrict such marriages in the past five years.
Her broader review on 'culture and integration' will examine bans on burkas and face coverings. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp and justice spokesman Nick Timothy have already expressed support for a burka ban. Badenoch insists her focus extends beyond clothing restrictions to address deeper issues like marriage practices and legal systems. A potential ban on cousin marriage would mark a significant shift in policy. Badenoch's review could also lead to new rules on face coverings and sharia courts. The proposals aim to reshape integration efforts but have yet to gain formal traction at a local level.
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