Legislation respects freedom of thought
The Scottish Government has stated criteria for criminality requires “intention” to suppress, meaning the proposed legislation would have a number of protections, such as where a person was providing advice or if an individual was seeking help for their own conflicting views on their gender or sexuality.
Similarly, the draft policy states non-directive or non-coercive discussions, general parental direction or restrictions would not be criminalised as long as the individual is allowed to “come to their own decision” without directions.
Suppression, under the plans, can include prescribing medication to suppress sex drive, therapy requiring them not to act on their same-sex attraction or controlling their appearance.
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “Conversion practices, which aim to change or suppress a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity, are damaging and destructive acts that violate human rights. Sadly, these practices still happen and have absolutely no place in Scotland.
“Our proposals are focused on situations where a service is provided or where there is coercive behaviour, using acts that are threatening, abusive, humiliating, punishing or controlling of day-to-day actions, which is carried out consistently or repeatedly.
“In each case there must be a specific intention to change or suppress another person’s sexual orientation or gender identity and harm must have been caused.
"The proposals recognise and respect the existing legal rights to freedom of thought, conscience and belief and private and family life as well as parents exercising their rights and responsibilities in relation to their children.
“The responses received will now be analysed and considered to inform the bill the Scottish Government will introduce into parliament in due course.”