Legal Recognition of Non-binary Gender Identities

The MP discussed the importance of respecting and protecting non-binary individuals, highlighting concerns over hate crimes against LGBT+ people. She also addressed the distinction between gender and sex in policy contexts, advocating for research into intersex and non-binary identities. The MP stressed the need to address stereotypes and ensure everyone can reach their full potential.

I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for giving way and for his comments about a respectful tone, with which I am sure we all agree. However, Kirsten Oswald disagrees with the notion that someone has put into people's minds an idea about their own identities. Kirsten Oswald intervened to ask Miriam Cates for more detail regarding his concerns about prisons and the arrangements in place to ensure safety on the prison estate. She highlighted the importance of recognising non-binary individuals and noted that only 78% of non-binary people have identification documents. She stressed the need for a better way to accommodate non-binary individuals in society, employment, service provision, and legal recognition. She also mentioned the contrast between Scotland's progress on LGBTI equality compared to the UK government. Ms Oswald welcomed the Church of Scotland's decision on equal marriage and asked the Minister for his views on banning conversion therapy for trans people.

Miriam Cates questioned the concept of non-binary gender identities, arguing that biological sex is binary while gender identity is not supported by scientific evidence. She expressed concern about the impact of gender ideology on vulnerable children in schools, particularly those who are autistic or have mental health conditions. Miriam Cates pointed out that a significant number of children identifying as trans or non-binary are also autistic, suggesting these children should be provided with safeguarding support. Acknowledged the hon. Lady's measured speech on intersex individuals and genetic disorders but clarified that these are distinct from gender identity, which has no biological marker. Ms Cates raised concerns about the use of puberty blockers for gender treatment, citing a lack of evidence supporting their effectiveness and safety.

Loughton expressed concerns about the legal recognition of non-binary gender identities, arguing that it could cause confusion among teenagers already dealing with significant pressures. He cited a 15-fold increase in young people seeking transgender or non-binary identification and highlighted potential risks to women's safety in spaces like prisons. Loughton also mentioned the use of puberty blockers by children and warned against the blurring of language around sex and gender, advocating for clear recognition of males and females. Mr Loughton discussed the same-sex marriage Bill, questioning whether a 12-year-old has the capacity to opt into puberty blockers without parental consent.