NHS: Single-sex Provision for Staff and Patients Debate

Full Debate: Read Full Debate
Department: Department of Health and Social Care

NHS: Single-sex Provision for Staff and Patients

Lord Cashman Excerpts
Wednesday 8th January 2025

(2 days, 4 hours ago)

Lords Chamber
Read Full debate Read Hansard Text Watch Debate Read Debate Ministerial Extracts
Lord Kennedy of Southwark Portrait Lord Kennedy of Southwark (Lab Co-op)
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

We will hear from the noble Baroness, Lady Hayter.

Baroness Merron Portrait Baroness Merron (Lab)
- View Speech - Hansard - - - Excerpts

There is, of course, already a definition in legislation of what that means. I know my noble friend will understand that I cannot predict what the guidance will be, but I will certainly pick up the point she has made.

Lord Cashman Portrait Lord Cashman (Non-Afl)
- View Speech - Hansard - -

My Lords, I remind your Lordships that I sit as a non-affiliated Member of this House. I encourage the Minister and the department to proceed with the utmost caution. Trans women and trans men pose a threat to no one. In relation to single- sex space, this House has debated the issue frequently. Therefore, does the Minister agree that the Equality Act works, with any measures for exclusion being on a case-by-case basis, proportionate and evidence-based? Will the Minister give the House an assurance that the Government will continue that sensible and humane approach?

Baroness Merron Portrait Baroness Merron (Lab)
- View Speech - Hansard - - - Excerpts

I agree with the noble Lord that the legislation provides a clear framework to all employers, but I also accept that some employers may wish to have further guidance on the existing legislation to enable them to make the right local decisions as employers, and it is that that we will consider.