MP praised for defending trans rights as conversion therapy ban debate turns into ‘garbled mess’
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The Failure of the Conversion Therapy Ban Bill: A Closer Look at the Debate
In a heated and contentious debate in Parliament on Friday (1 March), a bill aimed at banning conversion therapy failed to move forward, leaving many in the LGBTQ+ community feeling betrayed and disappointed. The debate, which ran out of time, saw accusations of filibustering from anti-conversion therapy ban MPs, leading to further division and frustration among lawmakers and advocates.
The Conservative government’s initial promise to ban conversion therapy in 2018 under Theresa May’s leadership took a turn when Boris Johnson opted to push forward with legislation that only protected gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals from the harmful practice. This decision sparked controversy and debate within the government and the LGBTQ+ community, setting the stage for the recent failed bill.
The Conversion Practices (Prohibition) Bill, put forward by Labour MP Lloyd Russell-Moyle, aimed to create new offenses for conduct seeking to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. However, due to the limited time allocated for debate as a Private Member’s Bill, the bill’s progress now seems unlikely.
The debate saw passionate speeches from MPs on both sides of the issue. Labour MP Kate Osborne expressed her disgust and disappointment at the filibustering tactics used to prevent the bill’s progression, calling it a betrayal of the LGBTQ+ community. Meanwhile, Canterbury With The T, an anti-trans network, criticized Labour MP Rosie Duffield for her opposition to the bill, highlighting the ongoing tensions within the party regarding LGBTQ+ rights.
Duffield’s controversial remarks during the debate reignited criticism of her previous comments about the trans community, further polarizing opinions on the issue. Her opposition to the bill stood in stark contrast to Labour MP Stella Creasy’s support for the ban, reflecting the internal divisions within the party on LGBTQ+ rights.
Tory MP Alicia Kearns drew praise for her defense of trans rights during the debate, challenging an Alba MP for excluding the “T” from references to the LGBTQ+ community. Kearns’ passionate speech resonated with many, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and unity within the LGBTQ+ community.
Despite calls from advocates and organizations like the Equality and Human Rights Commission to ban conversion therapy practices, Friday’s events have left many feeling disheartened and frustrated. The lack of progress on this important issue highlights the ongoing challenges and divisions within Parliament when it comes to protecting LGBTQ+ individuals from harmful practices.
As the debate continues and tensions rise, it remains to be seen if a full ban on conversion therapy will ever be implemented in the UK. The road ahead may be long and difficult, but advocates and allies remain committed to fighting for the rights and protections of all members of the LGBTQ+ community.
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