Perpetrators of LGBTQ+ conversion practices could face prison under new bill

Perpetrators of “conversion therapy” against LGBTQ+ people could face up to five years in prison under proposals hailed as a “historic and long overdue” milestone by campaigners. The government has published its draft conversion practices bill, which would ban abusive practices that aim to change someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity in England and Wales. People found guilty of such abuse could face an unlimited fine and up to five years in prison. Simon Blake, the CEO of Stonewall, said it was a “historic and long overdue step forward on the journey towards LGBTQ+ equality”. He said: “LGBTQ+ people are not broken or in need of ‘fixing’. At a time when we’re seeing increased hostility towards the LGBTQ+ community, this draft bill is crucial in creating a safer and more inclusive future .” It has been eight years since Theresa May first vowed to introduce anti-conversion practice legislation, but progress has been hampered by political dispute and U-turns. Boris Johnson’s government planned to scrap the ban entirely, before announcing it would go ahead with only sexual orientation – not gender identity – included. This caused a big backlash and forced the government to cancel its international LGBT conference . Opponents of the legislation say it could encroach on free speech and prayer, and prevent parents from discussing these issues openly with their children. …