Sky News are reporting that the UK government is expected to release draft legislation to outlaw conversion practices targeting both sexual orientation and gender identity, marking the latest step in a long-running effort to introduce a ban.
The proposed law would prohibit attempts to alter or suppress a person’s identity, practices widely condemned as harmful. Ministers have previously characterised such actions as abuse and signalled their intention to legislate, though progress has repeatedly stalled since an initial commitment was made in 2018.
Publishing the proposal in draft form means it will undergo consultation before entering the formal parliamentary process. While this allows for scrutiny and feedback, it could delay implementation, with analysts warning that the crowded legislative agenda may slow its passage further.
LGBTQ+ advocates and some MPs have expressed frustration at the pace of progress, noting that promised action has yet to materialise despite multiple commitments in recent government agendas. At the same time, there is cautious optimism that a trans-inclusive approach will be maintained in the forthcoming proposals.
Campaign groups have urged ministers to move quickly once the draft is published, stressing the need for clear legal protections. Survivors of conversion practices have also highlighted the urgency of reform, pointing to the length of time it has taken to reach this stage.
Although the draft bill represents movement after years of delays, it remains uncertain when, or if, a full ban will be enacted.
A comprehensive, trans-inclusive ban would provide critical legal protection against practices widely recognised as abusive, but continued delays risk prolonging harm and uncertainty for LGBTQ+ people.
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