Forced marriages in the Islamic world, as opposed to arranged marriages which require the consent of the partners, cause a great deal of concern even among many Muslims. It is particularly appalling that defiance of a forced marriage can sometimes lead to the "honour killing", usually of the intended bride, by members of her family.

Keighley MP Ann Cryer has taken a courageous stand against forced marriages at the risk of making herself unpopular with sections of her electorate. The scale of the problem can perhaps be judged from the fact that only last Friday three Keighley girls seeking to escape from forced marriages sought help from staff at her office.

Mrs Cryer has fought long and hard for a change in attitudes and in the law, and is currently seeking to persuade the Home Secretary to amend the Domestic Violence Bill to include a clause making aiding and abetting forced marriage, or coerced marriage, a criminal offence. Her hope is that such an amendment would send out a message that cultural excuses are not acceptable.

It is important that the Home Secretary listens, for the sake of those young people, and particularly women, who might find themselves being pressured into marrying against their wishes.

Meanwhile, Mrs Cryer's news following a visit to Pakistan is encouraging. She reports that President Pervez Musharraf has condemned the practice of forced marriage and that good progress is being made in Pakistan on women's rights.

The lead taken by President Musharraf in the home country of many Bradford Muslims is commendable. Let us hope that it leads to a change in attitudes here, too.