In her first major interview since taking up the post, the new chair of Britain's equality watchdog has called on campaigners who questioned her appointment to reserve judgement until they see her actions in the role.
A Call for Judgement Based on Actions
Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson, appointed as chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) at the start of December, made the plea after the UK government proceeded with her selection despite objections from Parliament's Women and Equalities Committee.
She stated her fundamental duty was to "uphold the rights of everybody across all protected characteristics". This comes after several LGBTQ+ organisations, including Stonewall and TransActual, raised concerns about her prior public statements in an open letter, suggesting they were "at odds with inclusivity for all".
Stephenson addressed specific criticisms, arguing that open letters she had signed—on topics like campus censorship and violence against campaigners—had been "really widely mischaracterised as kind of anti-trans letters". She framed her involvement as part of a lifelong commitment to human rights, including freedom of expression and association.
Building Bridges and Navigating Complex Rights
Acknowledging the need to foster trust, Stephenson said "clearly I need to build a relationship" with the LGBTQ+ sector. She emphasised the complexity of balancing rights in debates over single-sex spaces, stating it was crucial to also protect the rights of transgender people.
Her comments follow her past support for barrister Allison Bailey, who won a discrimination case against her chambers. Stephenson explained her concern was for "women who had been harassed or sometimes lost their jobs for the expression of legally protected views" during a heated public debate.
The Supreme Court Ruling and Forthcoming Guidance
One of Stephenson's most immediate challenges involves finalising official guidance following April's landmark Supreme Court ruling on biological sex. The EHRC submitted draft guidance to the government in September, but ministers have yet to approve it.
A leaked draft last month caused alarm among LGBTQ+ advocates by suggesting transgender people could be barred from single-sex spaces based on appearance. Stephenson rejected the idea this was "a licence to discriminate based on looks".
Her starting principle, she said, is ensuring everyone has access to the services they need. She clarified that while the Supreme Court ruled single-sex services must be based on biological sex, it is equally important to ensure services exist for those who cannot or do not wish to use services designated for their biological sex.
The UK government has stated it will take the necessary time to "get right" the new rules. Stephenson expressed confidence that the EHRC's draft guidance is legally sound and said the commission is ready to provide ministers with any required evidence.
