Rosie Duffield MP has been one of a growing number of politicians in our party speaking up for the sex-based rights of women and girls. One of the first to do so, she has advocated consistently for women and girls, enduring continual threats and mistreatment as a result.
In a climate where women still receive abuse and intimidation for discussing the policies and laws that impact us, we have been thankful for her voice. Rosie has been subjected to years of drawn-out party disciplinary investigations following clearly vexatious complaints. Though fully exonerated, this takes its toll. Indeed, “the process is the punishment.”
When Wes Streeting previously expressed regret regarding the treatment of Rosie and other “gender critical” women, including female MPs by the Labour Party, he also acknowledged their role in improving policy in this area. Streeting acknowledged that it was those same women who helped him understand the consequences of gender identity policies on the rights of women, girls and lesbians. It is not acceptable that advocating for lawful and compassionate policies should carry such a high price for women MPs and campaigners. We would encourage all members of the party, including MPs and the leadership team, to continue to listen.
LWD have come a long way since we launched our Declaration in 2019. Our policy positions are now broadly reflected in the views of the majority of Labour voters and members. Like us, they are relieved that Labour has, in government, stood firm in favour of evidence-based policy. Examples include continuing placing limits on the availability of puberty blockers for children, and committing to protect the single-sex exceptions for women and girls in the 2010 Equality Act.
Where Next? Labour Conference 2024
However, as was so clearly explained at our #LWDLiverpool24 fringe meeting Where Next? the party still holds several contradictory policy positions, (including on clarifying the definition of sex in the Equality Act 2010, Conversion Practices and GRA reform). Each potentially undermine Labour’s commitments to single-sex provision and to the full implementation of the NHS Cass Review.
LWD pledges to continue our campaign and policy work inside our party to ensure Labour upholds women’s sex-based rights.
We have just delivered a full programme of activities at both annual conferences in Liverpool, and received a warm welcome from the many conference delegates and MPs who visited us at our stall. Our two fringe meetings were standing room only and attracted national press coverage noting that we now represent the mainstream views in the party. A huge thank you to the scores of dedicated and hardworking volunteers and supporters who made up our team in Liverpool.
