Parliamentary.ai

Overview

This bill aims to make it illegal to practice or offer "conversion therapy" in the UK. Conversion therapy refers to any practice attempting to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity, based on the assumption that one is inherently preferable to the other.

Description

The Conversion Therapy (Prohibition) Bill criminalizes conversion therapy practices in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. The bill defines "conversion therapy" as any practice that assumes a particular sexual orientation or gender identity is superior and aims to:

• Change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity.
• Suppress a person's expression of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The bill will come into effect six months after it is passed. Penalties for violating the law will consist of a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify the direct cost to the government. However, enforcement and potential legal challenges are likely to incur some costs for law enforcement and the legal system.

Groups Affected

This legislation primarily affects individuals who may practice or offer conversion therapy, potentially impacting religious leaders, therapists, and others who engage in such practices. LGBTQ+ individuals are the main beneficiaries, as the bill aims to protect them from harmful practices.