Christian groups warn proposed conversion therapy ban risks censorship and criminalizing religious expression

Christian groups have raised concerns about Labour’s proposed Conversion Practices Bill, warning that it risks overreach and censorship. The Christian Institute, alongside the Greater Love Declaration and Affinity, wrote to equalities minister Bridget Phillipson, expressing worries that the draft legislation could infringe on parental freedom and religious expression. They argue that the bill’s definitions of “conversion practice” and “abusive” are too broad, potentially criminalizing ordinary Christian ministry and parental guidance that has never been considered illegal before.

The letter highlights the problematic use of the term “conversion,” which the groups say blurs the line between efforts to change someone’s sexuality or gender identity and efforts to change their religious beliefs. They urge the government to adopt language that does not distort a core Christian concept. The draft bill is currently under pre-legislative scrutiny, and the Christian Institute has warned that the proposed ban would be “sweeping,” as its definition of “abuse” includes “words.”

The group warns that the legislation could criminalize pastors sharing basic Christian teachings on gender and sexuality, or parents expressing concern about their child’s decision to “transition” or refusing to buy them a chest-binder. Simon Calvert, Deputy Director of The Christian Institute, called the proposed bill “one of the most troubling attempts at censorship we’ve seen.” He emphasized that the legislation goes too far in policing reasonable conversations and statements of belief, urging it to be shelved.

The debate over the bill reflects broader tensions around freedom of speech, religious expression, and the rights of individuals to make personal choices about their identity. The groups involved stress the importance of protecting the vulnerable and ensuring that laws do not disproportionately target those who hold traditional views on gender and sexuality. Their concerns underscore the need for clarity and precision in legislation that affects fundamental freedoms.

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