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No mention of conversion practices ban in King’s Speech, but draft bill still expected

No mention of conversion practices ban in King’s Speech, but draft bill still expected
King Charles delivers Speech | HoL
ET staff writer
ET staff writer
16 November, 2023 2 min read

There was no announcement of legislation to ban conversion practices in the King’s Speech delivered in Parliament on 7 November, but a draft bill is nevertheless expected to be published by the government.

A ban could limit the right of churches to preach, pray, and pastor people in line with biblical teaching on sexual ethics, and it could also catch conversations between parents and their children relating to matters of sexuality.

The King’s Speech – his first since becoming monarch – was delivered at the State Opening of Parliament. It is written by the government and contains an outline of its policies and proposed legislation for the new parliamentary session.

A ban on conversion practices was mentioned in the two previous Queen’s Speeches, so its omission this time could be an indication of resistance from some MPs who have objections.

Labour vow to bring in a ‘no loopholes’ ban on conversion practices
The Labour Party has promised to introduce ‘a full, no-loopholes, trans-inclusive ban on conversion therapy’ if they win the next general election.
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