Europe UK (Commonwealth Union) – The government of British Prime Minister Rishi has confirmed that they will block the recent controversial gender recognition legislation that was set to make Scotland the 1st part of the UK to bring in a self-identification system for those seeking to change their gender.
The recent move drew much concern in many parts of the UK with concerns of ‘gender tourism’ to Scotland as the age to change gender from male to female or vice versa, would be brought down from 18 to 16.
On learning of the decision by Westminister to block to recently passed legislation Nicola Sturgeon leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) tweeted
“This is a full-frontal attack on our democratically elected Scottish parliament and it’s ability to make its own decisions on devolved matters. @scotgov will defend the legislation and stand up for Scotland’s parliament. If this Westminster veto succeeds, it will be first of many.”
The Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill that was passed with backing also by the Scottish Labour party that voted with the (SNP) in favor of the law. However Scottish Labour party appears to be at odds with Keir Starmer the UK Labour leader who stated on a TV show on the BBC that had concerns on the provision in Scotland which was particularly the age reduction to 16 and also stated that 16 is too young to change gender.
Scottish Secretary Alister Jack who indicated that he would make an order under Section 35 of the Scotland Act 1998, made an announcement of his decision saying “After thorough and careful consideration of all the relevant advice and the policy implications, I am concerned that this legislation would have an adverse impact on the operation of Great Britain-wide equalities legislation.”
He further stated that he had written to the first minister and the Scottish Parliament’s Presiding Officer notifying them of his decision.
