For the first time since Scottish Home Rule, the British government vetoed an Act of Parliament in Edinburgh. This is the law of gender identity, which would facilitate change.
the british government vetoed new gender identity law passed by Scottish parliamentconsidering that it would not be in accordance with national legislation and because it could have “chilling effects” in spaces frequented only by women.
The decision was made by the Minister for Scotland, Alister Jack, and accepted by the First Minister Rishi Sunak. And the first time since Scotland has self-government status1998, that a London government vetoes a law passed in Edinburgh.
In support of the veto, the minister stressed that transgender citizens “deserve respect, support and understanding” and said that it is a decision made “after detailed and careful reflection”, according to The Times. Jack opted, however, for the veto, considering that “this legislation would have an adverse impact” on the maintenance of equal laws throughout the United Kingdom.
In addition, the minister stated that the measure could have “chilling effects” in single-gender venues as “clubs, associations and schools”.
The new gender recognition law was approved with 86 votes in favor and 39 against in the Scottish Parliament last December. With the new guidelines, it would be possible for anyone over the age of 16 to officially apply to change their gender, without the need for a medical diagnosis of gender dysphoria.
The Scottish first minister, Nicola Sturgeon, has already reacted to the decision of the national executive, describing the veto as “a frontal attack” on the Scottish parliament. “This is a political decision and that uses transgender people, one of the most vulnerable and stigmatized groups in our society, as a political weapon”, he stated.
Source: Observadora
