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Psychiatrist says conversion ban risked silencing concerns over Tavistock clinic
Psychiatrist David Bell has warned that Labour’s proposed ban on conversion practices could have been used to deter people from raising concerns about the NHS children’s gender clinic at Tavistock. He argues the bill could also make parents and health professionals fear prosecution if they do not affirm a child’s stated gender identity, reviving debate over how to protect young people while safeguarding open discussion.
Bell’s work helped bring scrutiny to the clinic, where children as young as ten were prescribed puberty blockers, and he said the approach he criticised was later examined by the Cass review. Equalities Minister Bridget Phillipson said the draft would not prevent reasonable conversations between parents and children and is being scrutinised by Parliament. Campaigner Jayne Ozanne has argued the bill should also cover prayer intended to change someone’s sexuality or gender identity; the Government says the draft targets abuse while protecting freedom of expression and belief.
In short
- David Bell says the draft ban could chill scrutiny of Tavistock.
- Ministers say reasonable family conversations would remain protected.
- Campaigner Jayne Ozanne wants the bill to cover prayer.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A ban on conversion practices could protect people, including children, from coercive efforts to change their sexual orientation or gender identity. Supporters can argue that carefully drafted legislation can target abuse while preserving ordinary conversations, medical care and freedom of belief, and that parliamentary scrutiny can address concerns about its scope.
The case against
Critics can argue that broad or unclear wording may deter parents and health professionals from discussing a child’s gender identity or expressing concerns about treatment, even when they are acting in good faith. They may also warn that including prayer or other speech risks chilling legitimate religious expression and open debate about care for young people.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Whistleblower warns that Labour’s conversion therapy ban would have been used to suppress scandal at NHS gender clinic for children”.