The Labour women’s conference cancellation has triggered a wave of criticism from both trans rights advocates and gender critical campaigners. The decision comes in response to a Supreme Court ruling that defines “woman” in the Equality Act strictly as a biological female.
Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) is expected to formally cancel the women’s conference. It was due before the party’s main conference in Liverpool this September. The move follows interim guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), which advises organisations to apply the ruling.
The party has been warned that proceeding with the conference on the basis of gender self-identification could result in legal challenges and public protests. In addition, all-women shortlists are now being restricted. The NEC is advised to interpret all internal rules based on biological sex.
The NEC document acknowledges the potential fallout, noting that many will be deeply affected. It also states the party will work with local branches and individuals to address concerns “with sensitivity and compassion.”
However, the Labour women’s conference cancellation has angered campaign groups on both sides. Labour Women’s Declaration, a gender critical group, called the move a “knee-jerk reaction” and said it undermined the party’s role as a serious political force. They argue the conference should be held in accordance with existing law.
Meanwhile, LGBT+ Labour, Labour for Trans Rights, and Pride in Labour issued a joint statement condemning the cancellation. They urged NEC members to vote against the plans. They said the proposals excluded trans women from critical policy discussions and weakened their role in the party.
They questioned whether excluding trans women is proportionate or lawful, given the conference’s history of addressing trans issues. LGBT+ Labour’s trans officer, Georgia Meadows, said the decision would further marginalize trans people and damage political representation.
The NEC also faces financial pressure, as cancelling the event could incur heavy costs due to existing contracts.
A Labour spokesperson said the party would follow the Supreme Court’s decision and upcoming EHRC guidance. Ministers will review the full EHRC code once it is submitted.
The Labour women’s conference cancellation highlights growing tensions within the party over how to balance legal compliance with inclusion.
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