Labour Party Criticizes Draft School Guidance Banning Teaching of Gender Identity for Using Partisan Language
The shadow education secretary chose not to express clear support for the ban but emphasized the importance of recognizing the existence of transgender individuals.
Shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson criticized parts of a draft school guidance that discouraged teaching children about gender identity, stating that it had become too political and unnecessary.
When asked if she would revoke the ban if Labour wins the general election, she focused on the need to acknowledge transgender individuals during her media appearances on Sunday morning.
Phillipson accused government ministers of inciting controversies and seeking publicity, emphasizing the significance of not turning the issue into a cultural battleground in the media.
These remarks followed criticism from author JK Rowling, a former Labour supporter, who accused the party of neglecting women in the transgender debate.
The Conservative government recently proposed guidance on relationships and sex education, including a ban on teaching gender identity theory, which suggests some people may identify differently from their assigned gender at birth.
Phillipson emphasized the importance of providing clarity to schools on this topic and committed to publishing guidance if Labour wins the upcoming election on July 4th.
While discussing her views on the ban on teaching gender identity, the shadow education secretary highlighted both positive aspects and elements that had become overly political in the draft guidance.
Phillipson stressed the importance of recognizing the existence of transgender individuals and providing necessary support, rather than engaging in divisive debates and controversy.
If appointed as the education secretary, Phillipson plans to review feedback from the consultation on the guidance and work collaboratively with stakeholders to address the issue responsibly.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer recently defended the party’s stance after criticism from JK Rowling, reiterating the party’s commitment to women’s rights and inclusivity.
Overall, the debate surrounding the ban on teaching gender identity continues, with various perspectives and responses shaping the discourse.
PA Media contributed to this report.
