The UK government will delay publishing new guidance on single-sex spaces until after local elections in May, according to Equalities Minister Bridget Phillipson. The draft policy, which would advise organizations on how to legally provide gender-exclusive facilities, cannot be released due to pre-election communication restrictions.
The proposed guidance has been under development for months amid ongoing debates about balancing transgender rights with protections for single-sex spaces. A government source confirmed the delay is due to election purdah rules that limit policy announcements during campaign periods.
Analysts suggest the guidance will likely address contentious issues including whether transgender women can be excluded from female-only spaces like domestic violence shelters and changing rooms. The Equality and Human Rights Commission has previously stated that service providers can legally restrict access in some circumstances.
Phillipson told reporters: ‘We remain committed to providing clarity for organizations while protecting the rights of all individuals.’ The minister declined to specify whether the guidance would differ significantly from leaked drafts circulated last year.
Legal experts warn the delayed publication could create uncertainty for schools, hospitals and businesses currently navigating complex equality laws. The guidance is now expected in late May following the May 2 local elections across England and Wales.