Thank you to the many constituents who have recently got in touch regarding Conversion Therapy.
In response to a petition on banning conversion therapy last year the government assured people that it was deeply committed to ensuring all citizens feel safe and protected from harm and that it was working to deepen its understanding of and consideration for ending the practice of conversion therapy.
Conversion therapy is a very complex issue. There are a wide range of practices which may fall within its scope and the government is working towards having a thorough understanding of the situation in the UK to inform an effective approach. Before any decision is made on proposals for ending conversion therapy, there must be a clear understanding of the problem, the range of options available and the impact they would have.
It is important to stress that certain abhorrent and violent practices which may be classed as conversion therapy such as ‘corrective’ rape, or other forms of physical abuse, are already covered by existing criminal offences. Where such practices are already unlawful, the government has said that it will ensure the law is clear, well understood and enforced. Where dangerous conversion therapy practices are not already unlawful, the government will examine the best ways to prevent them being conducted, without sending such practices underground.
I look forward to the government to bringing the legislation so we can get on with the task of ending this abhorrent practice which has no place in the UK.
If you would like to discuss this further or any other matter, then please do not hesitate to contact me.
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