Petition · Ministry of Justice
Ban cousin marriages
Closed
579 signatures
What the petition asks
We call upon the Government to introduce legislation banning cousin marriages.
Marriage is already illegal between siblings, so why not cousins?
Marriage is already illegal between siblings, so why not cousins?
If cousins marry and have children, there is a risk it can lead to a number of serious medical defects in those children.
We believe marriage between cousins, which may be acceptable in some countries and cultures, should not be allowed in the UK.
We think it is time the Government took a stance and introduces legislation to ban cousin marriages.
We believe marriage between cousins, which may be acceptable in some countries and cultures, should not be allowed in the UK.
We think it is time the Government took a stance and introduces legislation to ban cousin marriages.
Timeline
| 6 Mar 2025 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 6 Sep 2025 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
579
Status
Closed
Department
Ministry of Justice
Opened
6 Mar 2025
Closed
6 Sep 2025
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 3 Aug 2026.