Phillipson accuses Badenoch of abandoning support for LGBT+ people

Equalities minister Bridget Phillipson accused Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch of abandoning LGBT+ people after the Conservatives withdrew support for a proposed ban on abusive conversion practices. The dispute matters because the bill had previously drawn cross-party support, while its opponents say its wording could restrict discussions about gender identity and young people’s care.

The draft bill, published in June and open for consultation, could impose prison sentences of up to five years for attempts to change someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity through abuse causing serious harm. Badenoch has argued it could lead to parents being arrested; government officials say the bill requires both abuse and serious harm. The Conservatives say they are concerned it could criminalise exploratory conversations and point to existing laws and the rarity of such practices.