A new poll reveals Labour is divided on transgender ruling interpretations, with members almost evenly split on whether to support the Supreme Court’s definition of sex as biological. The survey, conducted by Survation for LabourList and Metro, shows 43% of Labour members back the government’s stance excluding trans women from women-only spaces while 40% oppose it.
The narrow margin, within the poll’s error range, highlights deep divisions. This comes after April’s Supreme Court ruling clarified that “sex” in the Equality Act refers to biological sex, a decision welcomed by ministers but criticized by trans rights advocates.
The court affirmed that single-sex spaces can legally exclude transgender individuals based on biological sex. The government called this “common sense,” ensuring protections for cisgender women. However, trans activists warn it risks widespread exclusion from gendered facilities like shelters and changing rooms.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has issued interim guidance, but final policies remain pending. Meanwhile, Labour’s internal rift reflects broader societal debates.
Despite the ruling, some Labour MPs privately tell constituents they oppose blanket bans on trans people in single-sex spaces. The Times reports growing dissent within the party, with lawmakers arguing for case-by-case assessments rather than categorical exclusions.
Critics fear rigid enforcement could harm transgender individuals’ safety and dignity. Supporters, however, stress the need for clear boundaries to protect women’s rights.
With the membership divided on transgender ruling interpretations, Labour faces a balancing act. Leader Keir Starmer has cautiously supported the court’s decision but avoids hardline rhetoric. The party must now reconcile internal factions while awaiting the EHRC’s final guidance. As the debate rages, one thing is clear: Labour’s path forward on transgender rights remains fraught and far from settled.
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