Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, whether she has had recent discussions with the Local Government Association on the interim guidance being given to councils on the Supreme Court ruling on For Women Scotland v The Scottish Ministers.

We have always been clear that the For Women Scotland Ltd v The Scottish Ministers [2025] Supreme Court ruling should be implemented in full by duty bearers, including local councils. Where necessary, they should seek specialist legal advice.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission - as the independent regulator - has submitted a draft Code of Practice for Services, Public Functions and Associations to Ministers, and we are working as quickly as we can to review it with the care it deserves. This will provide further guidance to duty bearers on how they should comply with the Equality Act 2010 following the Supreme Court ruling.