The Labour women’s conference delayed decision follows legal advice after a landmark Supreme Court ruling. The party has postponed its annual Women’s Conference to avoid legal risks related to the definition of a woman.
Last month, the Supreme Court ruled that the legal definition of a woman is based on biological sex. Until now, Labour permitted individuals to self-identify as women, allowing trans women to attend the event and participate in initiatives like all-women shortlists.
The move has triggered backlash from both trans rights supporters and gender-critical activists. Trans advocates say the postponement is a deliberate effort to marginalize their participation. Meanwhile, others argue the party overreacted to the legal change.
The Women’s Conference traditionally takes place the day before Labour’s main conference. Hundreds of female MPs, councillors, and grassroots members gather to debate policy and shape the party’s gender agenda.
A leaked paper to Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) advised postponing the event. The document warned that only excluding trans women would comply with the new legal definition. It also cited potential protests, legal threats, and security issues.
The NEC voted Tuesday night to delay the conference and the elections for the National Labour Women’s Committee. Existing committee members will remain in place until further notice.
Labour stopped using all-women shortlists at the last general election. The leaked advice also called for updated guidance, stating such shortlists must be limited to people born female.
In a statement, a Labour spokesperson said the party must ensure full compliance with the Supreme Court’s ruling. They emphasized that everyone deserves respect and pledged to carry out changes with sensitivity.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has issued a new draft code of practice. Ministers are currently reviewing it, and future party procedures may be influenced by its recommendations.
Georgia Meadows, trans officer for LGBT+ Labour, condemned the decision. They described the delay as an attack on trans rights and a move that worsens inclusion in the party.
Meanwhile, the Labour Women’s Declaration group, which defends sex-based rights, criticized the NEC’s action. A spokesperson said excluding all women from the event to avoid excluding a few was a disproportionate response.
The Labour women’s conference delayed decision highlights growing tensions inside the party. As Labour prepares for its autumn conference, it faces pressure to find a balance between legal compliance and inclusive values.
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