Christian organizations in the UK criticize conversion therapy bill

In the UK, several religious and public organizations have expressed concern following the publication of the government’s draft bill banning conversion therapy. According to Christian Today , the Evangelical Alliance and the Christian Institute stated that the proposed measures could lead to the criminal prosecution of parents and violate freedom of speech and religion.

Published on June 25, 2026, the government’s Draft Conversion Practices Bill proposes criminal liability for conducting conversion therapy, with a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison. The document also includes civil protection orders to prevent such practices.

Representatives of the Evangelical Alliance stated that they oppose attempts to forcefully change a person’s sexual orientation, but believe the wording of the new bill is too vague. In their opinion, the law could criminalize ordinary conversations between parents and children or discussions in a church setting. The Christian Institute expressed a similar position, pointing to potential violations of freedom of speech. The Free Speech Union also noted that the initiative could restrict the ability of medical professionals and parents to hold discussions with children experiencing gender dysphoria.

Conservative Member of Parliament Suella Braverman also criticized the document, stating that the conversion therapy ban could punish parents trying to protect their children from medical interventions, such as puberty blockers.

The draft bill will undergo pre-legislative parliamentary scrutiny in the coming months before being put to a vote.