Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, has earned praise from LGBTQ+ activists for pledging to introduce a trans-inclusive ban on conversion therapy if Labour secures victory in the next general election. Starmer aims to address what he describes as “psychologically damaging abuse” by extending legal protections to transgender individuals against attempts to forcibly change their sexuality or gender identity, commonly referred to as conversion therapy.
In a statement to LGBT+ Labour on Tuesday, Starmer declared, “We’ll implement a full, trans-inclusive, ban on all forms of conversion therapy,” expressing full support for the perspective that conversion therapy constitutes psychological harm.
Nick Baldwin, co-ordinator of LGBT Humanists, commended Starmer for prioritizing the rights and well-being of vulnerable LGBT individuals. He emphasized that banning conversion therapy is not only legally necessary but also a moral imperative, sending a clear message about protecting the rights, dignity, and safety of the LGBT community.
Founder of the Ban Conversion Therapy Coalition, Jayne Ozanne, welcomed Starmer’s commitment, particularly for its potential to safeguard trans people, who are identified as the most at risk. She stressed the importance of banning practices conducted by those with predetermined mindsets who deny someone’s transgender or gay identity, urging an end to the “war on trans” for the sake of lives and without political motives.
While Starmer has faced criticism for previous decisions perceived as setbacks for trans rights within Labour, such as scrapping the party’s commitment to self-identification and controversial remarks about gender identity, he has reiterated the party’s commitment to defending LGBTQ+ rights. Starmer also pledged to crackdown on all categories of hate crime, proposing longer jail sentences for those found guilty. Additionally, he promised to modernize the Gender Recognition Act, aligning with Scotland’s recent reform bill allowing legal recognition for trans individuals without requiring a medical diagnosis. Despite past controversies, Starmer maintains that Labour remains a staunch supporter of LGBTQ+ rights under his leadership.
