Conversion therapy ban could criminalise parents, warn 140 medics and MPs

Parents could be criminalised under Labour's proposed conversion therapy ban, the Prime Minister has been warned, in a letter signed by 140 medics, parliamentarians and other individuals.

The government recently reiterated its determination to introduce a full, trans-inclusive ban on conversion practices. It has said it will be a ‘key immediate’ priority.

The letter, signed by MPs and peers across the political spectrum, as well as doctors, psychiatrists and psychologists, has expressed ‘grave concerns’ about Keir Starmer’s proposals, according to the Daily Telegraph. It warns that parents who do not want their children to transition will risk being criminalised; and therapists who fail to ‘unconditionally affirm’ a child who wishes to transition could also be criminalised.

It adds that a conversion therapy ban is ‘unnecessary and will lead to significant, harmful unintended consequences’.

However, days after the letter was publicised Labour peer Lord Collins of Highbury said: ‘Any ban must not cover legitimate psychological support, treatment, or non-directive counselling. It must also respect the important role that teachers, religious leaders, parents and carers can have in supporting those exploring their sexual orientation or gender identity’.

'Affirming the falsehood of their gender identity'

Graham Nicholls, director of Affinity, welcomed the fact that ‘a wide range of MP’s and health professionals are recognising the damage that a ban on so called “conversion therapy” would cause in physically and mentally mutilating confused and vulnerable children by affirming the falsehood of their gender identity’.

He added: ‘The practices that most people imagine are part of conversion therapy are already against the law as physical or emotional abuse.’