Women's group threatens legal action over single-sex spaces

Women's group threatens legal action over single-sex spaces

Women’s rights activists are giving the Scottish government a 14-day ultimatum to comply with the UK Supreme Court’s decision on biological sex. The group Sex Matters has sent a letter warning of legal action if officials continue to stall on implementing new policies and guidelines. CEO Maya Forstater insists that single-sex facilities like toilets and changing rooms must be provided, with all public bodies in Scotland expected to take immediate action.

In April, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of women’s rights advocates in a significant case against the Scottish government. The government had argued that transgender individuals with a gender recognition certificate should receive the same sex-based protections as biological women. Despite this, Scotland’s first minister expressed that new sex-based rights guidelines were being developed following the ruling. However, Sex Matters is demanding immediate and complete implementation of the Supreme Court’s decision by the Scottish government.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is currently seeking feedback on a revised code of practice. It has issued interim guidance, stating that transgender women should not be allowed to use women’s facilities in places like hospitals, shops, and restaurants. Sex Matters believes that public authorities should not use the EHRC consultation as an excuse to engage in unlawful practices while waiting for new guidance. The group urges the Scottish government to confirm within two weeks that single-sex facilities must be provided based on biological sex, with any mixed-sex facilities in addition to this.

In response, the Scottish government has indicated that it will address the letter in due course. A spokesperson emphasized the government’s acceptance of the Supreme Court ruling and its commitment to reviewing policies, guidance, and legislation impacted by the decision. The ruling triggered backlash from the transgender community and their allies, who felt they were being marginalized from public life. Former first minister Nicola Sturgeon of Scotland expressed concerns that the decision could make the lives of transgender individuals nearly unbearable

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