From Christian Today. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)
Christians are being urged to share their concerns about the government’s draft ‘conversion practices’ bill with a parliamentary committee
The call comes amid warnings from The Christian Institute that the proposals could threaten parental guidance and pastoral ministry.
The organisation is inviting churches, Christian groups and individuals to respond to the call for evidence before it closes at 5pm on Monday 16 November.
The cross-party joint committee, comprising MPs and peers, is conducting pre-legislative scrutiny of the proposals and seeking views on how the draft legislation could be improved.
Simon Calvert, deputy director of The Christian Institute, said the call for evidence was an “important opportunity for Christians to make their voices heard” about how the measures could affect everyday conversations within churches and families.”
“MPs and Peers need to hear from people who understand how these proposals could affect everyday family life, church ministry and religious freedom,” he said.
“The more clearly the practical problems are explained, the harder they will be to ignore.”
The draft bill, which currently applies to England and Wales, would criminalise “abusive” conversion practices causing serious physical or mental harm, or serious alarm or distress with a substantial adverse effect on a person’s usual day-to-day activities. The principal offence would carry a maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment.
The government says the legislation is intended to address gaps in existing criminal law and protect people from abuse. Its explanatory notes state that the proposals are not intended to interfere with religious belief and expression, or inhibit legitimate support for people exploring their sexual orientation or transgender identity. However, these commitments have done little to reassure critics.