Christian Groups Raise Concerns Over Proposed UK Conversion Therapy Ban

A coalition of Christian organizations, including The Christian Institute, Affinity, and the Greater Love Declaration, has formally written to Equalities Minister Bridget Phillipson to express opposition to the government’s draft bill banning conversion practices. The groups argue that the proposed legislation is overly broad and could lead to the censorship of mainstream Christian ministry and parental guidance.

Critics of the draft bill contend that the definitions of “conversion practice” and “abusive” are dangerously vague. They warn that the legislation could potentially criminalize pastors who teach traditional views on gender and sexuality, or parents who discourage their children from transitioning. Simon Calvert of The Christian Institute described the bill as a significant attempt at censorship, arguing that it risks policing reasonable conversations and expressions of religious belief.

Furthermore, the groups have criticized the government's use of the term “conversion,” suggesting it distorts a core Christian concept. The draft bill is currently undergoing pre-legislative scrutiny, with opponents urging the government to abandon the current terminology and reconsider the scope of the measure to avoid infringing upon religious freedom and parental rights.