Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Schools (Gender and Parental Rights)

27 June 2023 · 3 other contributors

Opened by Andrew Bridgen Con North West Leicestershire

Education

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Andrew Bridgen raised concerns about schools (gender and parental rights) in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Moves to prohibit schools from promoting social transition practices
  • Requires schools to notify parents if a child indicates intention or begins social transition
  • Provides parents with a right to access information about lessons and teaching materials

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Andrew Bridgen Con North West Leicestershire

Moves to prohibit the promotion of social transition practices in schools, requires schools to inform parents if their child has indicated an intention or commenced a social transition, provides for a right for parents to access information about lessons and teaching materials, and makes provisions about the teaching of gender identity concepts. He emphasises that these changes are necessary due to the increasing prevalence of such practices, which he believes undermine basic societal norms and protect children from complex adult issues.

Other contributors (3)
  • Andrew Bridgen Con North West Leicestershire

    Expresses concern over the promotion of social transitioning in schools, noting that one in fifteen children now identify as a different gender to their biological sex. Argues that such practices are being imposed from the top down and constitute political indoctrination. Calls for immediate action to protect children's innocence and safeguard them from adult complexities until they reach an appropriate age.

  • Ben Bradshaw Lab Somerton and Frome

    Trans and non-binary people have always existed, with gender dysphoria recognised internationally for decades. Coming out is often extremely difficult, leading to high levels of mental illness and suicide. Schools are experienced in handling social transitioning sensitively and professionally. This Bill would force young people to live in their birth-assigned gender, even when they have parental support to transition. Parents face impossible choices regarding their child's education and mental health. The Bill could out LGBT students against their will, leading to homelessness for many who face family rejection. The Albert Kennedy Trust has seen a 70% increase in referrals from homeless LGBT young people worried about coming out due to familial hostility.

  • Rosie Winterton Lab unknown constituency

    Ms Winterton briefly requested the Serjeant to ensure everything is in order for the division, without providing further details or opinions on the debate topic.

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