The Conservative party has instructed all Tory council leaders to implement new rules protecting single-sex spaces, a directive that follows warnings from left-wing councils about defying updated guidance. These new rules mandate that public service providers must base single-sex space designations on biological sex rather than gender identity.
This guidance stems from an April ruling by the Supreme Court, which defined a woman based on biological sex. The Equality and Human Rights Commission's Code of Practice, informed by this ruling, came into effect this week. The code applies to a wide range of organizations, including the NHS, shops, gyms, local authorities, government departments, police, prisons, hotels, and restaurants.
The Conservative party has written to every Tory council, urging them to ensure "rapid compliance" with the new regulations. This move comes as some left-wing councils have indicated they would oppose the equality watchdog's directives, arguing that such rules could infringe upon the rights of transgender individuals. Kemi Badenoch's party has criticized Labour, Liberal Democrat, and Green councils for allegedly refusing to adhere to the law, asserting that the Conservatives are committed to safeguarding the rights of women and girls.