Judge fixes dates for proceedings in dispute over transgender legislation

A JUDGE at Scotland’s highest civil court has fixed dates for a proceedings concerning whether a government plan to expand the legal definition of women is “lawful”.

Lady Wise arranged for a two day long judicial review to take place at the Court of Session in Edinburgh during a short hearing yesterday.

Campaigners from an organisation called For Women Scotland have gone to the Edinburgh court to challenge a proposal to amend a piece of legislation called The Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Act 2018.

The organisation is concerned that government proposals to allow a man who identifies as a female to be legally recognised as being a woman is unlawful.

It also believes that the Scottish Government is unable to legislate on the matter as equal opportunities are supposedly a reserved matter for the UK Parliament at Westminster.

The Scottish Government believes the legislation needs to be amended to ensure more equal representation of women on public boards.

However, For Women Scotland believe the proposals undermine women’s rights as currently enshrined in law.

Earlier this year, Trina Budge from For Women Scotland, said: “This case is vitally important to stop the erosion of women’s rights in law, and we are grateful for the public support in bringing this action to hold the government to account.”

However, For Women Scotland’s claims are disputed by the Scottish

Trans Alliance. Vic Valentine, manager of Scottish Trans, told the Herald: “If the court throws out this legislation it will set back the rights of all women – not just trans women – to take part in public life in Scotland. All women should have their voices heard by public bodies, and trans women should not be singled out to be excluded.”

Lady Wise arranged for proceedings on January 7 and 8.