Catholic Church in England and Wales raises serious concern over proposed conversion therapy ban

The Catholic Church in England and Wales has expressed “serious concern” about plans to ban so-called “conversion therapy,” saying the proposals threaten freedom of religion and free expression and create “uncertainty” in the areas of pastoral care and family life.

Bans on “conversion practices” are being considered in Westminster and Northern Ireland. Scotland has previously explored its own ban but has since indicated that it would implement any ban brought in by Westminster.

The Westminster bill is undergoing pre-legislative scrutiny, with a report due in January. Northern Ireland’s proposals are at committee stage. Some have suggested the bill is “dead in the water” after a public consultation found overwhelming opposition to the plans.

Speaking on behalf of the Catholic Church in England and Wales, John Sherrington, Archbishop of Liverpool, spoke against the plans being considered in Westminster. “I would like to express serious concern about the provisions of the Conversion Practices Bill currently undergoing pre-legislative scrutiny before it is discussed in Parliament,” he said. “The Bill is very broad in its scope.”

The Archbishop said the Church stands in opposition to all abusive and harmful practices, but noted that current law already prohibits such practices in therapy settings. “This Bill proposes to extend the legal definition of abusive practices in ways that threaten a person’s fundamental rights, including freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression,” he said. He added that the legislation “will also create uncertainty around lawful pastoral care by the Church, family life and open conversations that can take place in a range of social settings.”

He also said the Church was concerned that the legislation would challenge its ability to fulfil its calling to “proclaim an authentic understanding of the human person with clarity, simplicity, love and respect.” “People of faith must remain free to express their beliefs through speech and prayer,” he said.

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