Labour is proposing a policy change to simplify the process of legally changing gender in the UK, as revealed by Anneliese Dodds, the Shadow Women and Equalities Secretary. The proposals aim to replace the current requirement of approval from a panel of medical professionals with a single family doctor’s sign-off. This change intends to make the process “less medicalised,” while still maintaining some level of medical oversight.

Under the current system, individuals seeking a gender recognition certificate need a diagnosis of gender dysphoria, must live in their affirmed gender for at least two years, and submit two medical reports for review by a panel. Labour’s proposed changes would streamline this process and remove the ability of a spouse to object to a change of gender.

The Labour Party’s approach stops short of the self-identification model debated in Scotland and retains some medical involvement, which differs from more radical reforms. These proposals have sparked debate. Critics, including Kemi Badenoch, the Woman and Equalities Minister, argue that the current system should not be altered and accuse Labour of politicizing the issue. The Royal College of GPs also raised concerns about the capacity and expertise of GPs to manage detailed aspects of gender dysphoria.

The controversial plan reflects ongoing discussions about the balancing of protections for transgender individuals and potential implications for women’s rights and single-sex spaces. Labour indicates these proposals will go to consultation if the party wins the next election.