In his first public comments since the justices’ decision on April 16, the Prime Minister said he is “really pleased” with the clarity that the court’s ruling offers.
In March 2022, before entering No 10, Sir Keir said “a woman is a female adult, and in addition to that trans women are women, and that is not just my view – that is actually the law”.
But asked on Tuesday to repeat his previous statement that “trans women are women”, he said: “I think the Supreme Court has answered that question.”
Asked if that means he does not believe a transgender woman is a woman, he told ITV West Country: “A woman is an adult female, and the court has made that absolutely clear.
“I actually welcome the judgment because I think it gives real clarity.
“It allows those that have got to draw up guidance to be really clear about what that guidance should say.
“So I think it’s important that we see the judgment for what it is.
“It’s a welcome step forward.
“It’s real clarity in an area where we did need clarity, I’m pleased it’s come about.
“We need to move and make sure that we now ensure that all guidance is in the right place according to that judgment.”
Equalities minister Bridget Phillipson suggested businesses should ensure ‘they have appropriate provision in place’ for all customers (Stefan Rousseau/PA)
Downing Street confirmed the Prime Minister’s U-turn from his earlier position.
Asked if Sir Keir still believed that a transgender woman was a woman, the Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “No, the Supreme Court judgment has made clear that when looking at the Equality Act, a woman is a biological woman.
“That is set out clearly by the court judgment.”
The official would not comment on Sir Keir’s remarks before entering government but said he had been very clear that “a woman is an adult female” and “the court has made that absolutely clear”.
The Supreme Court confirmed t...
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