UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has sparked controversy after saying he does not believe trans women are women, contradicting his previous views on the matter. The comments come after the UK Supreme Court ruled that a woman is defined by biological sex under equalities law.
Starmer’s official spokesman said the prime minister no longer believes a trans woman should be considered a woman under the Equality Act. He cited the court judgment as evidence, stating that “a woman is a biological woman” and that trans women are not included in this definition.
The comments have been met with criticism from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who accused the government of U-turning on the issue. Labour minister Bridget Phillipson welcomed the court’s decision but acknowledged the need for guidance on how to apply it.
Many Labour MPs have expressed concern about the implications of Starmer’s comments, citing rising anxiety among trans and non-binary individuals. Some have pointed out that a ban on trans women using women’s toilets or men’s toilets would leave them feeling uncomfortable and unsafe.
The UK Supreme Court’s ruling has sparked debate about how to balance equality and human rights with individual freedoms. As the government prepares to issue guidance on the matter, some MPs are calling for greater involvement from trans stakeholders in the process.
Starmer had previously stated that “a woman is an adult female” and that trans women should be treated with dignity and respect. However, his comments have been seen as a significant shift away from his previous views.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crldey0z00ro