In a speech at the Conservative Party’s conference in Manchester, England, Health Secretary Steve Barclay announced plans to prohibit transgender hospital patients in England from being treated in female- and male-only wards. Furthermore, Barclay pledged that patient requests for intimate care provided by someone of the same biological sex would be honored. These proposed changes aim to safeguard the privacy, dignity, and safety of all patients within the National Health Service (NHS).
Backlash and Concerns
However, these remarks have ignited a backlash, particularly among moderate Tory MPs who perceive these measures as part of a wider culture war designed to appeal to the right-wing faction of the party. Jamie Wallis, the first openly transgender Conservative MP, argued that this policy addresses a non-existent issue, citing freedom of information requests that found no complaints from biologically female inpatients about the presence of trans patients.
Elliot Colburn, another Conservative MP and chair of the cross-party group on global LGBT+ rights, emphasized the importance of distinguishing between sex and gender in healthcare, as some trans individuals may still be susceptible to illnesses corresponding with their birth sex. Colburn called for clarity on whether this policy would apply to individuals who had legally changed their gender.
Divergent Views Within the Party
While some senior Tories expressed strong criticism of Barclay’s speech, they remained anonymous due to their government roles. One stressed the party’s commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and denounced bigotry.
Appeal to Party Members
Barclay sought to resonate with Conservative members by stating that “we know what a woman is.” In his speech, he criticized NHS trusts for excessive diversity and inclusion teams and alleged that patients’ voices were being disregarded concerning the role of biological sex in healthcare. He underscored the need to address these issues promptly to safeguard women and future generations.
Health Leaders’ Response
Health leaders welcomed the focus on patient outcomes but expressed skepticism about Barclay’s social agenda. Julian Hartley, the chief executive of NHS Providers, emphasized the importance of inclusivity and broad consultation in any proposed changes to the NHS constitution. Meanwhile, Sara Gorton, the head of health at the Unison union, criticized Barclay’s speech as a distraction from pressing healthcare issues.
Cabinet Ministers and the Culture War
This announcement comes in the wake of concerns that cabinet ministers may be pursuing a broader culture war within the government. Suella Braverman’s recent comments suggesting that LGBTQ+ individuals living in fear of discrimination may not automatically be entitled to asylum in the UK have also raised eyebrows. Tory chair of the foreign affairs committee, Alicia Kearns, criticized Braverman for singling out the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing the importance of addressing asylum issues without harming vulnerable communities.