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

The UK government has unveiled a draft bill that would outlaw conversion practices aimed at changing someone's sexual orientation or gender identity in England and Wales. Perpetrators could face an unlimited fine and up to five years in prison, marking what campaigners call a historic and long-overdue milestone.

Simon Blake, CEO of Stonewall, said the bill is a crucial step towards LGBTQ+ equality, especially amid rising hostility. He stressed that LGBTQ+ people are not broken and do not need fixing.

The move comes eight years after Theresa May first promised such legislation, with progress stalled by political disputes and U-turns. Boris Johnson's government initially planned to scrap the ban entirely, then proposed covering only sexual orientation, sparking a major backlash.

Critics argue the law could encroach on free speech, prayer, and open parent-child discussions. However, the government insists it includes safeguards for legitimate healthcare, therapy, and open conversations.

The bill also introduces a new civil conversion practice protection order to preemptively support at-risk victims, similar to orders for forced marriage and female genital mutilation.

Matthew Hyndman, a contestant on The Traitors, recounted being told to 'publicly repent' for being gay or leave his evangelical community. He said the ban sends a clear signal that such practices are wrong.

Anti-LGBT abuse charity Galop identified 371 conversion practice cases from 2022 to 2025. Co-CEO Jasmine O'Connor said the ban is urgently needed, as existing laws on domestic violence and coercive control do not adequately address the unique harm of conversion practices.

Equalities Minister Olivia Bailey stated that legal loopholes have left LGBT+ people vulnerable, making legislation essential.