New Guidance on Single-Sex Spaces Expected Post-May Elections
New government guidance regarding single-sex spaces is anticipated to be published next month, following the local and national elections scheduled for 7 May, according to equalities minister Bridget Phillipson.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) recently submitted an updated draft of its Code of Practice, which advises organisations on applying equalities law. However, current election protocols prevent further government announcements on the matter at this time, as confirmed by Ms Phillipson in a written statement to Members of Parliament.
This redrafting follows a Supreme Court ruling that clarified the definition of 'woman' under the Equality Act should be based on biological sex. The EHRC's chair, Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson, stated that the latest amendments were made after considering government feedback, consultation responses, and legal advice. She emphasised that these changes aim to enhance understanding of the law and ensure all service users are treated with dignity and respect.
Ms Phillipson affirmed the government's support for single-sex spaces based on biological sex and indicated that protections for trans individuals are upheld within the existing Equality Act. The government is committed to laying the guidance before Parliament promptly after the elections. Once approved by the government, the new code will be presented to Parliament for 40 days, after which it will become statutory unless rejected by either the Commons or the Lords.
A leaked version of the draft suggested that trans individuals might be questioned about their access to single-sex services based on physical appearance or behaviour. This previous draft was criticised by trans rights campaigners as 'unworkable', while sex-based rights advocates expressed concern over the delays in publication, citing potential harm to women.
