EHRC Chair Discusses Upcoming Single-Sex Space Guidance Following Supreme Court Ruling
Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson, chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), has stated that although there will be no 'toilet police,' rules should be followed when guidance on single-sex spaces is released. The guidance follows a unanimous Supreme Court ruling in April which defines a woman by biological sex under the Equality Act 2010.
A leaked 300-page document indicates that single-sex spaces should be restricted to individuals of the same biological sex, meaning, for example, that a trans woman would not be permitted to use women's toilets. The guidance also suggests that businesses may request confirmation of eligible sex through proportionate methods.
The EHRC provided the guidance to the government three months ago, but it has yet to be published. Publication would grant legal force to the code of practice. The potential release of this document has sparked controversy and anger among some transgender campaigners.
Dr Stephenson began her tenure as EHRC chair in July, officially starting earlier this month. She has previously donated to the Allison Bailey case, which concerned women's rights to hold lawful beliefs without harassment; however, she maintains that she can remain objective on transgender issues.
The BBC report notes that a full interview with Dr Stephenson, conducted by Laura Kuenssberg, will air on Sunday.
