Single-Sex Space Guidance to Be Released Post-May Elections

Government Delays Finalizing Rules on Gender-Specific Spaces

Equalities Minister Bridget Phillipson announced that the government will publish updated guidance on single-sex spaces following the 7 May elections. The latest draft from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) was submitted this week, but electoral procedures have paused further official statements, she stated in a written address to Parliament.

Revised Code Reflects Supreme Court Ruling

The EHRC’s Code of Practice, which outlines how organizations apply equalities law, is being reworked after the Supreme Court clarified that the term “woman” in the Equality Act should align with biological sex. An initial draft was circulated in September, and recent adjustments have been made based on government input, public feedback, and legal analysis.

Dr. Mary-Ann Stephenson, EHRC chair, noted that the amendments aim to improve clarity for entities obligated to uphold equality standards. “These changes will ensure all service users receive respectful treatment under the Equality Act,” she explained, emphasizing the law’s intent to protect individuals from discrimination.

Trans Community Reacts to Draft Revisions

A leaked version from November suggested trans individuals could be assessed for single-sex services through physical traits or behavior. Alex Parmar-Yee of Trans+ Solidarity Alliance praised the revisions, calling the earlier draft “unworkable” and highlighting the importance of trans-inclusive policies aligned with global human rights principles.

“The only viable solution is to maintain trans-inclusive provisions across the country, reflecting Labour’s commitments to the trans community,” Parmar-Yee stated.

Maya Forstater, CEO of Sex Matters, criticized the delay, arguing it harms women. “It’s remarkable that a year after the Supreme Court’s decision and seven months after the regulator submitted its Code, the government still finds reasons to postpone finalizing the guidance,” she said.

Approval Process Set for Parliamentary Review

Once the code is approved, it will be placed before Parliament for 40 days, after which it will become statutory unless rejected by either the Commons or the House of Lords. The Commons will reconvene on 13 May following the State Opening of Parliament, before taking a recess on 21 May.