Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Gender Non-conforming Young People

15 April 2024 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Neale Hanvey SNP Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath

Women & Equalities

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Neale Hanvey raised concerns about rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and gender non-conforming young people in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The debate raised concerns about ideological capture in institutions regarding gender identity and sex, particularly in healthcare.
  • Criticism was directed at Stonewall for policies that have caused harm to LGB people, women, and transsexuals, and at the SNP for ignoring safeguarding concerns.
  • The MP called for a review of WPATH's guidelines and an end to gender-affirming care practices for young people due to a lack of evidence supporting these practices.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Neale Hanvey SNP Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath

The debate concerns the ideological capture of institutions related to gender identity and sex, particularly in healthcare. The MP highlighted how historical confusion around transvestism and homosexuality has parallels with today's issues regarding transgender identities. They criticised the SNP for ignoring safeguarding concerns when discussing gender recognition reform legislation. Concerns were raised about Stonewall’s influence on public bodies and its policies that have caused harm to LGB people, women, and transsexuals. The debate also highlighted the lack of evidence supporting gender-affirming care for young people and the need for investment in child mental health services. It criticised WPATH's guidelines as lacking developmental rigour and emphasised the importance of fully informed consent. The MP requested a review into how WPATH’s standards were lauded by Governments as international best practice, advocating for an end to gender-affirming care practices. The speech concluded with a call for better outcomes for LGBT young people, highlighting issues such as bullying, mental health risks, and the need for tailored support.

Other contributors (1)
  • An unnamed MP

    The intervention supported the lead MP's point about Stonewall’s influence on public bodies.

Government Response

Stuart Andrew

The Minister acknowledged the seriousness of the issues raised and committed to writing to the MP with updates on each area. He emphasised the importance of evidence-based decisions and safeguarding children, particularly LGBT young people who face specific challenges such as bullying and mental health risks. The Government has increased funding for child and young people's mental health services and launched a victim support service for those affected by conversion practices. They have also allocated £3 million to tackle anti-LGBT hate-related bullying in schools and convened roundtables with local authorities to address homelessness issues faced by LGBT individuals. The Minister discussed the review of statutory guidance on teaching LGBT content in schools, stating it would go out to public consultation later this year. He committed to writing to the MP regarding Equality Act issues and affirmed that proper processes are necessary for considering sensitive areas.

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