Christians Urged to Submit Evidence on Draft Conversion Practices Bill

A joint parliamentary committee is currently seeking public input on a draft bill aimed at criminalizing "abusive" conversion practices in England and Wales. The proposed legislation seeks to address gaps in existing law by targeting actions that cause serious physical or mental harm, with potential penalties reaching up to five years in prison. The government maintains that the bill is not intended to restrict religious expression or legitimate pastoral support for individuals exploring their sexual orientation or gender identity.

However, The Christian Institute has issued a call for churches and individuals to submit evidence before the November 16 deadline, expressing concern that the bill’s language remains overly broad. Deputy director Simon Calvert warned that the current draft could inadvertently criminalize ordinary parental guidance, prayer, and pastoral conversations. The organization argues that existing laws already provide sufficient protection against genuine abuse and fears that the inclusion of psychological and emotional pressure as factors could lead to the creation of new "speech crimes" that threaten religious freedom.