“For Women Scotland” Supreme Court Ruling

Cat Smith Excerpts

Tuesday 22nd April 2025 Commons Chamber

[Bridget Phillipson]

I would of course be happy to engage with colleagues from the Scottish Government. I will respond to that letter as quickly as I can.

[Cat Smith (Lancaster and Wyre) (Lab)]

I am very conscious that I represent many trans, intersex and non-binary constituents, and that the representations made to me in my office over the past few days have had a very clear message that they are feeling particularly victimised and quite scared for their own safety. Some are trans women and some are trans men, who seem to be very much lost from this debate. The one thing that really unites them is that they are worried about their day-to-day safety, so can I ask the Minister to provide some assurance to trans people right across the country that the Equality Act is still there and can protect them from discrimination and harassment?

[Bridget Phillipson]

My hon. Friend is absolutely right. They retain protection from discrimination and harassment. I can say very clearly to this House that trans people should not be victims of discrimination or harassment. They deserve dignity and respect. That is why it is important that we also ensure that trans people have access to high-quality healthcare services and that we clamp down on hate crimes, including those targeted at LGBT people.