MPs urged to reject cruel EHRC guidance on trans rights
With the clock ticking, the Scottish Greens have urged Westminster to reject the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC) Code of Practice relating to trans people accessing public spaces and services.
The guidance has already been laid before the House of Commons, which began a 40 day period during which objections can be made before it becomes statutory. This period will expire this week, on July 09th.
The Scottish Greens believe this guidance would cement exclusion and segregation into the statutory guidance that businesses, services, and public bodies across the UK are strongly encouraged to follow.
Labour MP Nadia Whittome has tabled a motion urging the government to reject it, which, at present, has been backed by 161 MPs.
The Scottish Greens equalities spokesperson, Kate Nevens MSP, said:
"This guidance is authoritarian and cruel and cements exclusion and segregation. It will cause real harm to trans people who have accessed these spaces and services for years without incident.
“With only days to go before it comes into force, the UK government still has time to change course.
“Trans people want the same thing as everyone else, to live their lives free from prejudice, discrimination and violence. Instead, this guidance will legitimise intrusive questioning, encourage suspicion and make everyday life less safe.
“And it won't just affect trans people. Anyone who doesn't conform to gender stereotypes risks being challenged or harassed, while workplaces, businesses and public services will be left to enforce guidance that is confusing, divisive and unworkable.
“The government should scrap this guidance and work with those affected to create a system that protects everyone's safety, dignity and rights.”