Christians urged to ask their MP to vote against ‘conversion therapy’ amendment to Criminal Justice Bill

Christians in England and Wales have been urged to ask their MPs to oppose an amendment to the Criminal Justice Bill which could put parents who refuse to agree to their child using puberty blockers at risk of criminalisation. It could also impact any Christian, including church pastors, who might pray about repentance with an LGBT friend.

The Christian Institute is asking church leaders to inform their congregations of the dangerous amendment tabled by Alicia Kearns MP.

New Clause 58 (NC58) could be debated by MPs as early as Wednesday (MAY 15) next week, and so Christians only have a few days to contact their MP and explain why they should vote against it.

Kearns’ amendment comes after Westminster has already opposed attempts by Baroness Burt in the Lords, and Lloyd Russell-Moyle MP in the Commons, to bring in a new ‘conversion therapy’ law.

Ciarán Kelly, Acting Director of The Christian Institute said:

“Like other proposed bans, it would trample on human rights, threatening the ordinary work of churches and potentially criminalising loving family relationships”.

Mr Kelly noted that the recent Cass Review on the dangers of pushing children down the transgender pathway clearly warns of the risks of a new criminal law.

He added:

“It is shocking that this amendment to criminalise any approach to gender identity that is not ‘affirming’ is still being pushed.”

A vote on NC58 would take place at Report Stage of the Bill, which starts on May 15. Christians therefore have just a few days to write to their MP, asking them to oppose the amendment for the sake of parents, vulnerable children and the mission and ministry of the Church.

● For guidance on contacting your MP, call The Christian Institute on 0191 281 5664.