For Women Scotland Supreme Court Judgment 2025-07-09
2025-07-09
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The Supreme Court issued a ruling on April 16, 2025, concerning single-sex spaces under the Equality Act 2010 and its implications for women's rights in Scotland.
What assessment has been made with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of the Supreme Court judgment in the case of For Women Scotland v. The Scottish Ministers on women in Scotland?
The ruling brings clarity and confidence for women and service providers such as hospitals, refuges and sports clubs. Single-sex spaces are protected by law under Labour’s Equality Act 2010, and will always be protected by this Government alongside the rights of the trans community, as was stated by the Supreme Court.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The Secretary of State did not directly address whether the Scottish Government is upholding the law or if specific actions are needed to comply with the ruling.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Joe Griffin, permanent secretary to the Scottish Government, was unable to provide specific actions when questioned about the Supreme Court ruling.
Do the UK Government believe that the Scottish Government are failing to uphold the law?
The application of the Supreme Court ruling to services in Scotland is of course a matter for the Scottish Government, and it is for the Scottish Government to ensure they fully comply with the law as it stands.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The Secretary of State avoided stating whether the Scottish Government is upholding the law.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The Scottish Government is facing criticism for their handling of the Supreme Court ruling, with concerns raised about compliance and clarity.
Does the Secretary of State agree that the SNP Government have made an absolute mess of this issue, in much the same way they mishandled the devolution settlement for NHS, education, and housing services?
I think the F-word could be used about whatever the Scottish Government have done—and that is “failure”. When it comes to the elections in May 2026, the Scottish public will have to decide whether they require a third decade of the SNP Scottish Government or a change with Anas Sarwar as First Minister.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The Secretary of State did not address the specific issues raised about the Supreme Court ruling and instead shifted focus to political opinion on the SNP government's overall performance.
Shifting Focus
Political Criticism
Response accuracy