Thank you for contacting me about conversion therapy.
I am clear that no one in this country should be harmed or harassed for who they are and attempts at so-called 'conversion therapy' are abhorrent. That is why the Government is carefully considering this very complex issue.
While I know that legislation to ban conversion practices was not announced in the King's Speech, I can assure you that a lot of work has already been done, particularly with faith groups, to enable ideas and solutions to be brought forward. I understand that Ministers are still reviewing this and continue to be committed to tackling conversion practices, and are very aware that the public wants a decision. I can also assure you that the Government is taking great care to protect people who might be vulnerable to these kinds of practices.
Ministers have been clear that any legislation targeting harmful practices must not affect the wider ability of parents, teachers, councillors, religious leaders or healthcare practitioners to have open and challenging conversations with young people who are expressing or exploring their identity.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Kind regards,
Graham
