By Kemi Badenoch-
The Conservative Party has pledged to amend the Equality Act if they win the upcoming election after Equalities Minister, Kemi Badenoch, told the BBC that recent “social changes” have led to misinterpretations of the law’s intentions. This announcement forms a significant part of the Tories’ broader agenda as they prepare for the election.
‘Whether it is rapists being housed in women’s prisons, or instances of men playing in women’s sports where they have an unfair advantage, it is clear that public authorities and regulatory bodies are confused about what the law says on sex and gender and when to act – often for fear of being accused of transphobia, or not being inclusive.
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‘That is why we are today pledging that, if we form a government after the election, we will clarify that sex in the law means biological sex and not new, redefined meanings of the word.’
Bademoch said men were ‘exploiting loopholes in the law by calling themselves trans’.
She said: ‘Just putting on a different set of clothes does not make you transgender, adding that transgender athletes would not be ‘stopped from competing’ but would in some cases have to be classified as their biological sex.
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Meanwhile, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is positioning his party as the “party of national security,” emphasizing defence ahead of a campaign visit to meet with veterans.
John Healey, the shadow defence secretary, has committed Labour to increasing defence spending to 2.5% of GDP and ensuring nuclear security “for generations to come.” This marks a substantial policy proposal, signalling Labour’s dedication to national security and military readiness.
On the environmental front, the Liberal Democrats have unveiled plans to expand marine protected areas and introduce a new Blue Flag status for rivers in their general election manifesto. This initiative is part of the Lib Dems’ broader strategy to enhance environmental protections and promote sustainable water management.
The Scottish National Party (SNP) also launched its election campaign yesterday. First Minister John Swinney criticized the current Tory government as “disastrous” and accused Labour of mimicking Tory policies, asserting that people in Scotland are eager for change.
This Friday, the BBC will be hosting a debate featuring four of the main political aprties in the UK.. A key highlight will be the head-to-head clash between Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Keir Starmer, scheduled just days before polling day. This debate is expected to be a pivotal moment in the campaign, offering voters a direct comparison of the two main contenders’ visions for the country.
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