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Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office: Women

Asked by Rupert LoweRestore BritainForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 1 May 2025UIN 47440

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether their Department plans to amend its policies on access to (a) toilets, (b) changing facilities and (c) other single-sex spaces in (i) Departmental buildings and (ii) other buildings within their Department’s remit following the Supreme Court judgement in the case of For Women Scotland v The Scottish Ministers of 16 April 2025.

Answered by Catherine West

The Supreme Court ruling made it clear that the provision of single-sex spaces is on the basis of biological sex. Providers should note and follow the ruling. It is important that we ensure dignity and respect for all. Trans people should have access to services they need but in keeping with the ruling. The Equality & Human Rights Commission (EHRC), as Britain's Equalities watchdog, is developing updated guidance to support service providers. Ministers will consider the EHRC's updated draft once they have submitted it following further work in light of this ruling. The Government is considering the implications of the Court's judgment, including what this means for Government buildings.

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