The Andy Burnham government is prepared to consider a Private Members' Bill that would prohibit first-cousin marriage, with the Ministry of Justice confirming it is reviewing potential legislative changes. The move follows the introduction of the First Cousins (Prohibited Relationships) Bill by Shadow Health Minister Dr Luke Evans, which is scheduled for its second reading in the House of Commons on January 15 next year.
Government response to Bill
A Ministry of Justice spokesman told GB News on Tuesday, August 25: "We recognise the serious concerns that have been raised around this issue. As any responsible Government would do, we must look at whether legislation is the best solution to tackle this."
The statement signals a potential shift in policy, as the government has not previously indicated support for changing the law on cousin marriage. The Bill, if enacted, would also cover civil partnerships and sexual relationships between first cousins, citing genetic health risks and the need for legal clarity on close family boundaries.
Political reactions and previous attempts
Shadow Transport Secretary Richard Holden, who had previously attempted to bring forward a similar Private Members' Bill before it was consistently stalled by the Labour Party administration led by Sir Keir Starmer, has also spoken out on the issue. Mr Holden said: "Andy Burnham should lead Labour in a sensible U-turn and back the Bill to ban first-cousin marriage.
"This latest crazy case highlights yet another reason why we must end the practice. We should never be in a situation where first-cousin marriage can strengthen someone's claim to remain in Britain. I brought forward legislation to ban first-cousin marriage because the risks associated with the practice are well established, and our laws should be clear about the standards we expect in our country."
Mr Holden added: "With Dr Luke Evans taking that Bill forward in this session, the Prime Minister has a golden opportunity to do the right thing. We'll see if he takes it."
Bill details and next steps
Dr Evans explained the rationale behind his legislation: "I have already introduced legislation to prohibit marriage, civil partnerships and sexual relationships between first cousins, both because of the serious genetic health risks involved and because our law should be clear about where the boundaries of close family relationships lie. This provides an excellent opportunity for the Prime Minister and the Government to work with me to close this loophole."
The First Cousins (Prohibited Relationships) Bill is not expected to return to the House of Commons for its second reading until January 15 next year. The government's consideration of the Bill marks a notable development in the ongoing debate over the practice, with the potential start date for any change in the law being 2027.
