Mary-Ann Stephenson appointed EHRC chair amid LGBTQ+ concerns
Mary-Ann Stephenson has been appointed as the chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) despite parliamentary objections to her suitability, which the government overruled.
Stephenson has stated that critics should judge her by her actions, pledging to uphold rights across all protected characteristics. She emphasised the importance of building relationships with the LGBTQ+ sector and protecting trans rights, particularly in discussions around single-sex spaces.
She argued that her past letters opposing censorship and violence against campaigners align with human rights and were mischaracterised as anti-trans. Stephenson also disclosed donating to Allison Bailey's 2022 campaign; Bailey was later found to have been unlawfully discriminated against for her gender-critical views.
LGBTQ+ groups including Stonewall, Galop, and TransActual raised objections to Stephenson's appointment, citing concerns regarding inclusivity.
One of the main challenges facing the EHRC under her leadership is issuing formal guidance on the 2024 Supreme Court ruling concerning biological sex. Guidance on this was submitted to the government in September, but ministerial delays have slowed progress.
Stephenson rejects the notion of a "license to discriminate based on looks" and maintains that single-sex services must be based on biological sex. She noted that the government intends to take time to get the rules right and that the EHRC will provide evidence if needed.
