Pakistani children account for 30% of all cases of genetic diseases, making up 4% of births. In addition to birth defects, children of first cousins are more likely to suffer from conditions such as developmental delays and chronic genetic diseases. These can include conditions such as blindness, low IQ, cleft palate and heart problems. Mr. Mohamed, representing Dewsbury and Batley, suggested that MPs avoid "stigmatizing" the issue, which is seen as "very positive" in some communities. Instead of banning it altogether, he said, a "more positive approach" involving advanced genetic testing for prospective cousins in marriage would be more effective in addressing the problems associated with it. Mr. Mohamed, a member of the Independent Alliance of MPs - including former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn - has faced criticism from senior Tory MPs for defending the practice.