The UK government has announced plans to extend its consultation on banning conversion therapy by eight weeks.
According to a statement released by the government on 9 December, the move has been taken to ensure the legislation can be shaped appropriately and to take as wide a range of views as possible into consideration.
“We are absolutely determined to stamp out conversion therapy, and want to hear all views on the best ways to do that,” said Minister for Women and Equalities Liz Truss.
“The consultation on our proposals has been extended by eight weeks, to ensure anyone who has not yet responded has the opportunity to do so.”
Theresa May’s government first committed to a ban on conversion therapy in 2018, though this is yet to be delivered.
The current consultation is unlikely to result in a comprehensive ban on the practice, as a statement from the government stated that its goal is to make it a criminal offence to carry out conversion therapy on someone under the age of 18 under any circumstance, as well as those older than this who did not give their informed consent.
There are also plans to produce a package of measures and support for victims, which is likely to include limiting the promotion of it and removing profit streams.
Truss continued: “We are absolutely committed to a ban which will make sure LGBT people can live their lives free from the threat of harm or abuse, whilst protecting free speech as well as protecting under-18s from being channelled into a irreversible decisions about their future.”
The consultation will now draw to a close on 4 February 2022 after concerns were raised that the initial six-week-long period would not be enough.
I am determined to stamp out conversion therapy and protect free speech.
I want everyone to be able to have their say on this important issue.
We have extended our consultation to ensure all voices are heard.
👉https://t.co/zJFc4Cj4b5— Liz Truss (@trussliz) December 9, 2021
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