Southwark Lib Dem Leader urges solidarity with trans community, and EHRC guidance to be withdrawn

Cllr Victor Chamberlain, Southwark’s Liberal Democrat Group Leader, has today written to the Labour Minister for Equalities, Bridget Phillipson, urging her to withdraw the EHRC guidance. 

Southwark is home to one of the largest LGBTQ+ communities in the country, with a full programme of events through Pride month. 

In 2023 the Liberal Democrats proposed a motion that was passed unanimously to stand with the trans community, and in their local election manifesto promised to create and implement an LGBTQ+ strategy, which is expected to progress under the new Green-Liberal Democrat Joint Administration.

The letter explains the extreme concern felt among the trans community about the guidance, branding it ineffective and dangerous. The Government’s impact assessment warns that trans people could be barred both from spaces that align with their sex assigned at birth, as well as spaces aligning with their gender identity. 

Cllr Chamberlain has also urged the government to provide updated legislation to protect the trans community. 

He has also asked the council to take a formal position on this issue as Deputy Leader of the Council with LGBTQ+ matters sitting in his portfolio.

Commenting, Cllr Victor Chamberlain said:

“Southwark is a proud home to a thriving LGBTQ+ community, and I know we are united in standing in solidarity with our trans friends, neighbours, and family. 

The EHRC code of practice represents a massive step backwards. I’m extremely concerned about the impact it will have on the safety and dignity of trans residents in Southwark, as well as the disproportionate impact it will have on local businesses now facing a total lack of clarity on what the law requires of them. 

We’re here because Labour has refused to listen to the trans community on this issue, and has instead given in to online fear-mongering and vitriol.

The Minister must withdraw the guidance, and set out a pathway for updated legislation that will protect against discrimination and harm for the trans community.”