‘Gay conversion therapy’ ban creeps closer

A ban on so-called gay conversion therapy has come a step closer in three of the four nations of the United Kingdom.

The Queen’s Speech set out plans for a consultation to take place on how a ban might be introduced in England and Wales.

In Northern Ireland, prohibition has moved a step closer after the Assembly passed a motion in favour of a ban.

Attempts by Pam Cameron of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) to include an amendment protecting ‘legitimate religious activities’, including prayer and pastoral support, was defeated.

Cameron said the DUP ‘firmly opposed’ conversion therapy, but added: ‘We are concerned at the absence of any clear or evidence-based definition of conversion therapy contained anywhere within the motion. There is a risk that such ambiguity, if translated into legislation, would criminalise legitimate activities or conversations.’

First Minister Arlene Foster, who backed the proposed amendment, said: ‘Any law coming forward must define therapy in a way which does not harm freedom of religion – a right protected by the European Convention on Human Rights. If [there are] no safeguards for churches, it will not be supported by us.’

Peter Lynas (see photo), director of the UK Evangelical Alliance, is based in Northern Ireland. He commented: ‘We support the ending of abusive practices, while protecting the freedom of choice of individuals and the religious liberty of churches. Legislation can and should do both.’

In April, the Church of England’s representative in the House of Commons called on government to protect clergy from criminalisation under any new law. Andrew Selous MP said that, while backing a ban, ‘the Church believes that it is possible to end conversion therapy without outlawing prayer and private conversations with clergy and Church members that an individual has requested’.

The Queen’s Speech proposal for England and Wales says that any legislation will be carefully drafted so as to avoid ‘unintended consequences’. This is believed to be intended to ensure that medics and church leaders can continue to have what the government as called ‘open and honest conversations with people’.

The Christian Institute said it will take legal action if a proposed ban outlaws ‘the wrong kind of prayer’.