UK Government could block gender reform bill passed by MSPs over 'concerns' for safety of women

dailyrecord.co.uk:

The UK Government could block controversial plans to make it easier for Scots to change their gender despite MSPs voting in favour of the landmark legislation.The Gender Recognition Reform (GRR) Bill was finally passed at Holyrood today by 86 votes to 39 after winning cross-party support following three days of heated debate.But nine SNP MSPs voted against in the party's biggest rebellion since taking power in 2007.The legislation intends to lower the age from 18 to 16 at which a person can apply to change their legal gender, as well as removing the need for a medical diagnosis.But the plans could be scuppered after Tory ministers hinted they could step in to stop the act receiving Royal Assent.Alister Jack, the Scottish Secretary, said: "We share the concerns that many people have regarding certain aspects of this Bill, and in particular the safety issues for women and children."We will look closely at that, and also the ramifications for the 2010 Equality Act and other UK wide legislation, in the coming weeks - up to and including a Section 35 order stopping the Bill going for Royal Assent if necessary.”A section 35 order is intended to prevent laws passed by the Scottish Parliament having "an adverse effect on the operation of the law as it applies to reserved matters".Kemi Badenoch, the UK equalities minister, previously raised concerns the GRR bill would impact other home nations as well as Scotland.The new law was passed despite nine SNP MSPs rebelling against the Scottish Government.

Two Labour MSPs also defied their party to vote against it, while three Tories supported the bill.Nicola Sturgeon had earlier defended the legislation and described it as possibly the most scrutinised in the history of Holyrood.The