Better Start Longitudinal Programmes

Baroness Deech Excerpts

Tuesday 10th February 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

As my noble friend knows, we are absolutely focused on improving quality and consistency of care for women throughout pregnancy, birth and the critical months that follow. That is why we have appointed the noble Baroness, Lady Amos, to lead an independent investigation and why the Secretary of State will chair a maternity and neonatal taskforce to address the recommendations of the investigation. It is very much part of our work to give babies the very best start in life.

[Baroness Deech (CB)]

My Lords, the Minister has expressed the commendable ambition of raising the healthiest generation of young children ever. So why have the Government done nothing to condemn and educate about, if not prohibit, cousin marriage, the babies from which suffer twice the number of birth defects as those from non-cousin marriage?

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

My recollection from debating that point previously is that we are looking at the evidence and the best way to tackle the issue that the noble Baroness raises: in other words, what best supports children to have that healthy and best start in life? We are looking at this in the round and I am sure that we will return to it, but I will also be pleased to follow up in writing to the noble Baroness.