Liberty has initiated legal action against the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) concerning the duration of its consultation aimed at updating its code of practice. This follows a Supreme Court ruling that clarified the definitions of ‘woman’ and ‘man’ within the Equality Act 2010, emphasising the biological aspects of these definitions.
The charity argues that the EHRC has not allowed sufficient time for meaningful responses, with the consultation period set at just six weeks—far less than the 12 weeks it considers necessary for stakeholders to engage effectively.
Key Points
- Liberty is legally challenging the EHRC over the consultation timeframe regarding updates to its code of practice.
- The challenge is a response to the Supreme Court’s recent definition of ‘sex’ in the Equality Act 2010.
- The EHRC’s consultation period was initially set for two weeks, later extended to six, which Liberty claims is insufficient.
- Liberty argues the changes proposed can significantly impact trans individuals’ access to services, requiring longer consultation.
- A High Court judge will determine how to proceed with the case.
Why should I read this?
If you’re interested in how legal interpretations of gender and equality are evolving, this article is a must-read! Liberty’s push against the EHRC could set important precedents for future policies affecting the trans community and highlight the legal expectations for public consultations. Don’t miss out on the insights that could shape the future of equality practices!