London – In response to the UK Supreme Court’s ruling clarifying that the term “sex” in the Equality Act refers to biological sex, British MP Antonia Bance has reiterated her firm support for trans rights, stating that these rights are “non-negotiable” and must be protected alongside women’s safety and dignity.

Bance was replying to an email from Khakan Qureshi, thanking activist Daniel Lismore for facilitating the exchange. In her detailed response, she addressed growing concerns around the implications of the court’s interpretation and the direction of equality policy in the UK.

On April 16, the Supreme Court ruled that under the Equality Act, “sex” should be understood as biological sex, meaning individuals will be legally recognized by their birth sex for the purposes of the Act, regardless of whether they hold a Gender Recognition Certificate.

Commenting on this, Bance wrote: “This means a person will be considered as their biological sex for the purposes of the Act, whether or not they have a gender recognition certificate.”

Government Response: Clarity for Service Providers

Bance referenced a statement delivered on April 22 by the Minister for Women and Equalities, who emphasized that the ruling provides clarity and confidence for service providers. The Minister underlined the need for single-sex services and spaces—such as in healthcare, prisons, sports, and support groups—to be clearly protected.

At the same time, the Minister reaffirmed that trans individuals retain legal protection under the Equality Act and must be able to live free from harassment and discrimination.

“Single-sex spaces should not come at the expense of treating trans people with respect,” Bance wrote.

EHRC Preparing New Guidance

Bance explained that the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC)—an independent body—has been consulting on a revised Code of Practice to help service providers and public institutions understand their duties under the law. She stressed the importance of the EHRC listening to diverse voices before finalizing the guidance.

“Ministers will then consider the EHRC’s updated draft once it is complete, including equality impacts in line with the public sector equality duty and providing for full parliamentary scrutiny,” she added.

Bance: “Civil Rights for Trans People Are Non-Negotiable”

In her personal remarks, Bance was unequivocal:

“Trans people’s civil rights are non-negotiable. It is right that trans people are protected from harassment and discrimination, and treated with dignity and respect. UK law is absolutely clear about this.”

She acknowledged that while employment discrimination against trans people has been illegal for over 15 years, enforcement remains inconsistent. She expressed hope that Labour’s upcoming employment rights bill would address these shortcomings.

She also reaffirmed Labour’s commitment to:

A full trans-inclusive ban on conversion practices

Equalizing all hate crime protections across England and Wales

Women’s Rights and Safety Still Critical

Drawing from her professional background in women’s prisons and domestic abuse services, Bance emphasized the importance of privacy and safety for women in vulnerable situations.

“Where women are particularly vulnerable, single-sex spaces based on biological sex are necessary. Therefore, I support the court’s judgment that ‘woman’ means biological female—it is a clear and commonsense position,” she stated.

However, she cautioned against framing the debate as a battle of rights.

“This must not be seen as a triumph of one side over another… I detest the continued focus on genitalia and which toilet people use.”

She added: “This is the UK—wherever possible, we live and let live. Trans people have every right to live the lives they choose.”

Moving Toward a Balanced Outcome

Bance rejected the idea that the government is pursuing a transphobic agenda, though she acknowledged that recent months have been difficult for many in the trans community.

“The Supreme Court has clarified what the law means, and now we need to find a way through that protects everyone with a protected characteristic.”

She concluded by pledging to work with the government to uphold both trans rights and women’s safety:

“In the coming months I will be supporting the government to get this right, and pushing for us to keep the promises we made to trans people in our manifesto, whilst ensuring that everyone’s rights are upheld.”