Maori Party co-leader Pita Sharples says his outspoken MP Hone Harawira is entitled to his views on who his children should date.
Some MPs are angered by Mr Harawira's comments about how he would feel if one of his children was dating a Pakeha.
Mr Harawira has told a newspaper he would not feel comfortable if one of his seven children came home with a Pakeha partner.
Prime Minister John Key says the comments are ridiculous, and he does not mind who his children date - including Mr Harawira's children - as long as they are happy.
National Party MP Tau Henare says Mr Harawira's comments are racist. He says he does not mind who his daughters bring home - as long as they have money.
Dr Sharples says many people would agree that marrying someone from the same culture is a good thing, however, he does not believe that Mr Harawira's comments are divisive.