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Commission Chair Advocates for Biological Sex in Facilities

12/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Dr. Mary-Ann Stephenson, chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, told a BBC interview that guidance after a Supreme Court ruling requires single-sex spaces to be accessible only to those of the same biological sex.
She also suggested that unisex facilities could be a solution where single-sex options are limited.
The appointment has faced criticism for past gender-critical views, but she says she will remain objective on trans issues.

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Story summary

Dr. Mary-Ann Stephenson, chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, told a BBC interview that guidance after a Supreme Court ruling requires single-sex spaces to be accessible only to those of the same biological sex.
She also suggested that unisex facilities could be a solution where single-sex options are limited.
The appointment has faced criticism for past gender-critical views, but she says she will remain objective on trans issues.