The UK Government Equalities Office unveiled draft proposals on Friday to ban conversion therapy for minors and vulnerable adults in England and Wales, seeking to prevent “coercive and abhorrent” practices that try to change sexual orientation or gender identity.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson pledged to outlaw conversion therapy last year after other countries banned it. The Government Equalities Office explained that international evidence suggests there is a strong link between conversion therapy and serious psychological harm.

The draft proposals unveiled Friday restricts conversion therapy, but does not ban it outright. Under the proposals, it is a crime to offer conversion therapy to minors and vulnerable adults who are unable to properly consent. Any type of the practice involving physical or sexual violence is already illegal.

“It is … vitally important that no person is forced or coerced into conversion therapy, and that young people are supported in exploring their identity without being encouraged towards one particular path,” Minister for Women and Equalities Liz Truss stated. “People’s personal freedoms are key to the health and functioning of a democratic society, such as freedom of choice, freedom of speech and belief, and are central to my proposals.”

Under the proposals, freely consenting adults can still undergo conversion therapy. Truss explained, “we do not intend to ban adults from seeking such counselling freely, but consent requirements will be robust and stringent.”

There will be a six-week consultation to allow individuals to express their views on the proposals, presenting a vital opportunity for the public and key stakeholders to work with the government to develop an effective ban. After the consultation closes on December 10, Truss will decide on whether the plans need to be amended. The Equality Hub will prepare draft legislation by Spring 2022.