Campaign Reply - Stonewall (Transgender policy)

Thank you for contacting me about Stonewall and the Government's policy towards transgender people.

My ministerial colleagues are clear that, although they do engage with numerous LGBT groups, organisations like Stonewall do not decide Government policy. The UK does not recognise self-identification for the purpose of obtaining a gender recognition certificate.

In regards to schools, I do not believe our children's education should be politicised. Schools, are required by law to maintain political impartiality. It is vital that children are exposed to differing viewpoints, but this must be in a fair and balanced way: the law explicitly states that where political issues are brought to the attention of pupils, they must be offered a balanced presentation of opposing views. Guidance published by the Department for Education in 2023 states that, while schools must be respectful and tolerant places, there is no general duty to allow a child to ‘social transition’. 

The Government is determined that everyone should be able to live their lives free from unfair discrimination, and that free speech and open discussion must be protected as long as it does not break the law.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.