The National Health Service has launched an investigation after internal training materials for midwives suggested there were "potential benefits" to marriage between first cousins and claimed associated genetic risks were often overstated.
Controversial Guidance Revealed
The document, which came to light following a Freedom of Information request, has sparked significant concern. It stated that between 85 and 90 per cent of cousin couples do not have children with genetic disorders. Furthermore, it listed "collective social capital" and "financial and social security" as possible advantages of such unions.
Medical experts and politicians have reacted with alarm, highlighting the well-documented increased risk of birth defects and developmental issues in children born to closely related parents. The guidance was reportedly part of training resources intended for NHS midwives.
Political and Institutional Backlash
Conservative MP Richard Holden was swift to criticise the materials, stating unequivocally that there are "no benefits" to marriages between first cousins. This incident echoes previous controversies where the NHS has faced calls to issue formal apologies for similar guidance.
In response to the outcry, the NHS has moved quickly to distance itself from the document's content. A spokesperson acknowledged the established genetic risks and confirmed that an active investigation is underway. The primary aim is to identify and remove the inappropriate wording from all training materials.
Investigation and Government Action
The health service's probe is focused on understanding how the guidance was approved and disseminated. Simultaneously, the government is involved, working to ensure procedural gaps are closed so that similar incidents cannot happen again.
This event, dated Monday 19 January 2026, raises serious questions about the vetting process for sensitive medical training resources within the UK's public health system.
