As you will know, the Supreme Court has ruled on the definition of a woman for the purposes of the Equality Act.
Following the ruling, the EHRC consulted on a draft Code of Practice for services, public functions and associations on how to implement the clarification in the law. The purpose of the EHRC’s Code of Practice is to ensure or facilitate compliance with the Equality Act. I know a variety of affected stakeholders engaged with the consultation and the EHRC listened to voices from all sides. That Code of Practice has now been sent to Ministers for consideration. I hope that the Government will publish it in a timely manner so there is maximum clarity for all concerned.
I appreciate this is a contested issue with antagonistic voices on either side. However, I do not want people to be misled. There is no change to the legal protections for transgender people in law, including against discrimination and harassment. Being transgender also remains a protected characteristic under the Equality Act. I believe everyone should have the freedom to live their own lives and contribute to British society, regardless of their sex, sexual orientation or gender identity.
