The Labour Government has pledged to introduce a draft Bill banning conversion therapy for everyone, including transgender individuals, as part of the King's Speech. This move fulfills a commitment made in the party's 2024 election manifesto.
Details of the Proposed Ban
Officials have stated that the ban will be carefully balanced and precisely targeted to avoid interfering with legitimate healthcare and support for those exploring their sexual orientation or gender identity. The legislation, which covers England and Wales, will be published for pre-legislative scrutiny to gather expert and stakeholder views.
Background and Delays
The promise to ban conversion therapy dates back to 2018 under former Conservative Prime Minister Theresa May. It was later scaled back under Boris Johnson to exclude transgender people, but the subsequent Conservative government under Rishi Sunak pledged in January 2023 to include everyone. However, the legislation did not materialize, with the Conservatives citing complexity and existing legal protections.
Ministers reaffirmed their determination to outlaw conversion practices last June, pledging a ban within nine months, but it faced delays. Stonewall and the Ban Conversion Practices Coalition have pressed the government to publish a draft Bill before the summer recess, expressing disappointment over repeated delays.
Conversion practices continue to cause profound harm to the LGBTQ+ community, and campaigners remain determined to see the legislation through.
