King’s Speech Details Smoking Ban, ‘Conversion Therapy’ Prohibition, and Revisions to Mental Health Act
Sir Keir Starmer remains committed to advancing the smoking ban, reforming the Mental Health Act, and implementing a ban on ‘conversion therapy.’
During the state opening of Parliament, over 40 bills were mentioned, with only three directly related to health policy outlined in the accompanying brief by the Labour government.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer aims to leverage his significant majority to progress the smoking ban and mental health reform.
A bill proposed by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to phase out the sale of cigarettes and tobacco products will be carried forward by Labour, aligning with the party’s manifesto.
The bill proposes a gradual increase in the legal purchasing age for cigarettes, ensuring that future generations are unable to buy tobacco products.
Additionally, the government plans to enforce Fixed Penalty Notices to prevent underage sales of tobacco and vaping products.
Moreover, legislation will be introduced to restrict junk food advertising to children and the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to under-16s.
‘Conversion Therapy’ Ban and Mental Health Reform
Proposed legislation seeks to ban ‘conversion therapy’ and reform the ‘woefully out of date’ Mental Health Act of 1983.
The bill aims to make detention under the act more restrictive and ensure that individuals can only be detained when absolutely necessary.
Further provisions include shorter detention periods, more frequent reviews, and appeals, as well as greater autonomy for patients.
To address discrimination in mental health detention, the bill aims to reduce the number of detained individuals with learning disabilities or autism.
Another aspect of the bill is the removal of police stations and prisons as places of safety for mental health crises to ensure appropriate support for those in need.
Concerns Over Legislation
While mental health charities support reform efforts, concerns are raised regarding safety and pragmatism in implementing the proposed changes.
Additionally, a draft bill to ban ‘conversion therapy’ has sparked controversy with fears that it may criminalize therapists who do not affirm a person’s chosen identity.
Advocates for victims and gender questioning individuals have highlighted potential implications of the legislation.
Ultimately, the draft legislation is subject to consultation before being introduced to the House of Commons, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered.
