Overview
- The Draft Conversion Practices Bill, included in Wednesday’s King’s Speech, pledges a ban on attempts to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
- The plan covers England and Wales only, since Scotland and Northern Ireland control their own criminal law.
- Ministers will publish the text for pre-legislative scrutiny so lawmakers, clinicians, faith leaders, and advocates can examine and challenge the wording before a full bill is introduced.
- Officials say the measure targets coercion and abuse and will not block legitimate healthcare, open-ended counselling, or the expression of religious belief.
- LGBTQ+ groups such as Stonewall welcomed movement after years of stalled promises dating back to 2018, while critics including Dr Hilary Cass warned broad definitions could criminalise parents or deter clinicians from working with gender-questioning young people.