Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.
Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson, the newly appointed chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), has emphasized the importance of adhering to forthcoming guidance regarding single-sex spaces. Speaking to the BBC in her first interview since taking on the role, Dr Stephenson highlighted the necessity of goodwill and mutual respect in balancing rights, noting that there is no expectation of strict enforcement by “toilet police.” The guidance, which has been formulated for businesses and public services, follows a unanimous Supreme Court decision earlier this year clarifying that, under the Equality Act 2010, a woman is legally defined by biological sex.
Although the EHRC submitted the guidance to the government three months ago, it has not yet been formally published, meaning it has not acquired the status of a legally binding code of practice. The document, running to around 300 pages, aims to instruct various organizations—including women’s refuges, gyms, hospitals, and shopping centres—on how to comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling. It asserts that single-sex facilities should be restricted to individuals of the same biological sex; therefore, transgender women (biological males identifying as women) would not be permitted to use women’s toilets or changing rooms. The guidance also allows for businesses to request “proportionate” evidence of biological sex where deemed appropriate.
This stance has sparked significant backlash from transgender rights advocates, who argue the measures are exclusionary. In her discussion with the BBC, Dr Stephenson reiterated that the approach does not intend to create enforcement authorities at entrances, but acknowledged that complaints might require venue operators to enhance signage, provide explanations, or offer alternative provisions when necessary. She appealed to both service providers and users alike to respect the established rules. When questioned about what transgender individuals should do if there are no alternative facilities, or if providers lack the resources to create separate spaces, Dr Stephenson suggested practical solutions like converting existing gender-specific cubicles into unisex arrangements where feasible.
Dr Stephenson, who assumed her position earlier this month after being appointed in July, has faced criticism from some transgender campaigners. This partly stems from her previous financial support for lawyer Allison Bailey, who pursued a tribunal case regarding alleged discrimination tied to her gender-critical views. Addressing concerns about her impartiality, Dr Stephenson insisted she can objectively handle trans-related matters. She explained her motivation for supporting the case was rooted in her concern about women facing harassment or losing employment for holding lawful opinions, emphasizing the importance of protecting democratic principles, open dialogue, and the ability to discuss proposed legal changes without intimidation or violence
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.