House of Commons written answers, 11 March 1998
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Parliamentary questions
Written answers: the DfEE, 11th March, 1998
These questions were asked by Kali Mountford MP (Labour, Colne Valley) just before the close of the consultation period on the DfEE’s proposals for protecting the employment rights of trans people.
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From House of Commons Hansard
11 March 1998 : Column: 228 Kali Mountford: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what plans he has to hold discussions with (a) legal experts, (b) medical experts and (c) representatives of transsexual people with regard to the consultation paper Legislation Regarding Discrimination on Grounds of Transsexualism in Employment. [33124] Mr. Alan Howarth: The Department intends to have discussions with medical experts and representatives of transsexual people as part of the consultation process. Legal expertise is available within the Department and Government, although we will consider any comments received from others in the legal community who wish to respond to the consultation document. Kali Mountford: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what submissions his Department has received in response to the consultation paper Legislation Regarding Discrimination on Grounds of Transsexualism in Employment. [33125] Mr. Alan Howarth: The consultation period is not yet over. So far the majority of comments received in response to the Consultative Paper have been from transsexuals and organisations representing their interests. These have been generally helpful in assisting in clarifying typical experiences at work. Comments from employers, trade unions, local authorities, the medical profession, and educationalists are expected. Kali Mountford: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what assessment he has made of the ECJ ruling in the case of P v S and Cornwall County Council, with reference to the consultation document Legislation Regarding Discrimination on Grounds of Transsexualism in Employment; and if he will make a statement. [33126] Mr. Alan Howarth: The European Court of Justice has ruled that to dismiss a person on grounds of gender reassignment is contrary to the Equal Treatment Directive. This Government are fully committed to implementing the ruling in UK law, and will make decisions on necessary changes in the light of outcomes from the current consultation. Parliamentary copyright © is acknowledged |