Christian Institute criticizes Scottish government over conversion therapy ban engagement

The Christian Institute has formally requested that Scottish Equalities Minister Simita Kumar address what it describes as a one-sided approach to consultations regarding a proposed ban on conversion therapy. Joanna Timm, representing the organization’s Let Us Pray campaign, stated that while government officials frequently meet with LGBT stakeholders, requests for similar meetings from religious groups have been largely ignored or limited to brief online sessions.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the Scottish government’s decision to defer the legislation to Westminster. Reports suggest this strategy is intended to avoid potential judicial reviews and reduce political pressure. Additionally, the Christian Institute highlighted concerns over government spending, noting that a taxpayer-funded helpline for conversion therapy victims cost approximately £72,000, despite receiving very low call volumes during the final quarter of 2025. The organization argues that these factors demonstrate an imbalance in how the government engages with different perspectives on the proposed policy.