Scottish Government criticised over conversion therapy plans

The Scottish Government has been criticised after failing to introduce legislation banning conversion practices, despite making the commitment in its manifesto.

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John Swinney set out his legislative agenda for the year on September 1, with legislation on Scottish conversion practices notably absent from his Programme for Government.

The SNP pledged in its manifesto to introduce legislation to ban conversion practices during the first year of the parliamentary term, should the UK Government fail to do so.

Kaukab Stewart, the former Equalities Minister, also told LGBTQ+ voters in April that legislation would be brought forward.

Instead, the Scottish Government has said it will work with the UK Government to “explore extending” its draft legislation for England and Wales to Scotland.

Scottish Greens spokesperson for Equalities Kate Nevens MSP described the decision as “unacceptable”.

She added: “A comprehensive, watertight ban has been promised again and again, and rather than following through on the promises the Scottish Government made, today’s Programme for Government has delayed it further.

“The current draft Westminster bill not only fails to include Scotland, it also fails to adequately address all forms of conversion practices and protect everyone from harm.

“The Scottish Government must offer a clear roadmap for Scotland that protects everyone affected, leaving no loopholes for abuse and ensuring that no-one is left behind.”

Similarly, Scottish LGBTQ+ charity the Equality Network stated that it believes conversion practices will continue under the current UK proposals, adding that Scotland is now the only place in the UK where a ban is not currently being legislated for.

In response to the criticism, Equalities Minister Simita Kumar said she wanted to be clear that the Government is committed to banning conversion practices and that any suggestion this is not the case is “simply false”.

Ms Kumar added: “Should the UK Government fail to deliver what is necessary, we will not hesitate to bring forward Scottish legislation.

“That is our clear commitment – whether through UK or Scottish legislation, we are determined to end conversion practices in Scotland.

“I met with LGBTQI+ stakeholders yesterday and will continue to engage with them and others as this process continues.”

The Scottish Government first committed to banning conversion practices in 2021, under Nicola Sturgeon.

In 2024, it consulted on the issue, receiving more than 5,800 responses, before shelving the plans to consult with the UK Government.

Under both Labour and Conservative administrations, a comprehensive ban has been announced in four separate State Openings of Parliament between 2021 and 2026, with a bill yet to be presented to MPs.

Draft legislation for England and Wales has now been published for pre-legislative review, with a timetable for its introduction to the Commons yet to be announced.