Memorandum from John Rawding (CJ&I 274)

I'm concerned that here is yet another challenge to freedom of speech in the proposed amendment to the Government's Criminal Justice Bill.

As I understand it, this law is unnecessary as all people are protected from assault and threatening words or behaviour under the current criminal law. In addition, the law concerning incitement to commit a criminal offence would make it an offence for any person to incite an act of violence against another person, for whatever reason.

I am particularly concerned about the implications for freedom of speech.

Even pro-gay researchers admit that homosexual orientation can change - there have been at least two high-profile cases in the US this year. See for instance http://www.venusmagazine.org/cover_story.html    

This looks like an attempt to silence the truth on this matter and is a further threat to freedom of speech in this country.

I trust the committee will see that this is an unnecessary measure, and that it would endanger the freedoms that we currently enjoy.

October 2007