Pavlov's Dogs

🇬🇧🇵🇰 NHS DEFENDS COUSIN MARRIAGE TO AVOID OFFENDING PAKISTANI COMMUNITIES NHS England’s Genomics Education Programme issued guidance highlighting “benefits” of first-cousin marriage. This occurred even though they noted a higher 4–6% risk of genetic conditions (compared to the generally accepted 2–3%). The practice is prevalent in parts of the British Pakistani community. Critics say the guidance appeases cultural gatekeepers and collides with UK norms on women’s rights, integration, and taxpayer-funded health costs. Conservatives vow legislation to ban the practice, citing data that up to 20% of congenital cases in some cities involve Pakistani children (vs ~4% nationally) and a poll showing 75% support a ban. The NHS says banning would stigmatize communities and favors genetic counseling and public awareness instead. Source: Daily Mail, YouGov