The horror of what has happened is now widely recognised. The state, which should uphold child safety, instead engaged in a programme of mutilating children.
It would make clear that the definition of the protected characteristic of sex (as in “sex discrimination” and “single-sex services”) relates to biology, and is not modified by a gender recognition certificate.
The politics of moral indignation come easily to the Leader of the Opposition.
If the new procurement policy means anything at all then it means ideological requirements could trump value for money.
Christmas can be a trying time – but this list of diversions, distractions, and silver linings should help even see the most dispirited activist through the holidays.
Just as with immigration, there is a limit to what even the most combative minister can do if the legislative and institutional factors underpinning an issue are not addressed.
Also: new polls suggest Labour has reached parity with the SNP in Scotland, and the projections indicate that the next election could be absolutely brutal for the Nationalists.
The necessary evaluations involve many voices and inevitably take time. Although this can be frustrating, it means outcomes are much more resistant to influence from groups and individuals with extreme agendas and ideologies.
The Prime Minister’s rhetoric about being a man who makes the tough choices has not yet been borne out in his policymaking.
The elephant in the room is that, unless something significant changes, it is unlikely that the Prime Minister will be able to see through any these plans.
Prioritise sex over gender identity for safety and practical reasons, then have ministers publish guidance that is as black-and-white as possible, and prepare for the inevitable legal challenges.
The decision involves children, parents, schools and doctors, and has implications for rights, mental health, responsibilities and culture – as well as the management of a restive parliamentary party.
Maybe the future isn’t Leavers v Remainers, or even Conservative v Labour. Perhaps its truth v post-truth – Rowling v Dorries. I’m with Rowling. You?
In order to pacify Stonewall and its followers outraged by this apparent new outbreak of Labour flip-flopping, Labour has made two very significant, but less publicised, promises.
Children who experience discomfort with their biological sex deserve to be treated with dignity and respect and need compassionate, effective mental health care. Sadly, at the hands of health authorities, they have been pushed in only one direction.