Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s decision to uphold a ban on puberty blockers has ignited fierce debate and reignited culture wars within the Labour Party only days after it was elected in a landslide. Here’s the full story.
More Respectful Attitude
Just days after being elected following now Prime Minister Starmer’s promise to cultivate a more respectful and less oppositional attitude towards transgender healthcare and trans rights, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has faced significant criticism from within his party following his decision to uphold a ban on puberty blockers for children prescribed with gender dysphoria.
Emergency Ban Review
Initially imposed by his Conservative predecessor, Victoria Atkins, the emergency ban is now under judicial review following a High Court challenge to the previous government’s decision. Despite fierce opposition from several Labour MPs, Streeting remained resolute, citing the need for caution.
Influenced by Cass Review
Streeting’s stance has been heavily influenced by the findings of the Cass Review, an independent assessment of gender identity services led by paediatrician Dr Hilary Cass. The review, which LGBTQ+ groups and charities have criticised, stressed the lack of robust evidence on the long-term safety and effectiveness of puberty blockers for children experiencing gender dysphoria.
Call for Cautious Approach
Cass recommended a cautious approach, suggesting more research was necessary before these treatments could be deemed safe and appropriate for young people.
Streeting’s X Thread
In a lengthy thread posted on X, formerly Twitter, Streeting argued that there should have been more clinical trials of puberty blockers to ensure the drug’s safety was “established before they were ever prescribed,” and promised just such a review of the drugs by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).
Prioritizing Children’s Safety
Streeting wrote, “We don’t yet know the risks of stopping pubertal hormones at this critical life stage. That is the basis upon which I am making decisions. I am treading cautiously in this area because the safety of children must come first.”
Irresponsible Public Statements
He added, “Some of the public statements being made are highly irresponsible and could put vulnerable young people at risk. I know there’s lots of fear and anxiety. I am determined to improve the quality of, and access to, care for trans people.”
Heated Debate Ensues
Streetings comments have sparked a heated debate within the Labour Party, with several MPs, including Stella Creasy and Kim Johnson, publicly criticising the decision. On X, Creasy stated, “To those asking, [I] will always be MP who listens to demand for better research & evidence base for help for those with gender dysphoria, not abandons them.”
MPs Stand With Trans Youth
Similarly, Johnson wrote on X, “Labour’s manifesto promised to ‘remove indignities for trans people who deserve recognition & acceptance’ – this entails ending the ban on puberty blockers,” the MP for Liverpool Riverside said on X. “I will always stand with trans youth.”
Duffield Supports Streeting
Not all within the Labour Party are against Streeting’s decision. Rosie Duffield, a Labour MP who has previously felt ostracised due to her views on gender reforms, expressed her support for Streeting. She praised his thoughtful approach and prioritisation of safeguarding vulnerable children.
Legal Challenges Arise
The decision to ban puberty blockers has also led to legal challenges. Campaign group TransActual and an unnamed young person have brought the issue to the High Court, contesting the government’s order.
Barrister Criticizes Ban
Their barrister, Jason Coppel KC, argued that Atkins had “proceeded without taking clinical or other scientific advice on those views and overruled officials who had wanted wider consultation and had warned her of serious impacts, including self-harm and suicide, on highly vulnerable children and young persons who had already embarked upon treatment”.
LGBT+ Labour’s Open Letter
Following Streeting’s social media post, LGBT+ Labour published an open letter urging the Health Secretary to address several issues raised in the Cass Review. It read, “In line with the review’s recommendations, steps must be taken to cut waiting lists for trans youth, address long-term staffing issues, move towards a decentralised, equitable system for accessing care (including through the provision of regional centres), provide comprehensive training for NHS staff on how best to support and work sensitively with trans and questioning young people, and better address the current toxicity of public debate which is actively harmful to young people.”
Deepened Party Divisions
Though Wes Streeting has argued that his decision is based solely on the need to protect young people and will be guided by scientific backing, the move has deepened division within the Labour Party.
Future Debates Expected
As the High Court review and clinical trials progress, the debate over the use of puberty blockers in gender-affirming care for young people is set to continue long into the future.
Public Perception Concerns
After promising to put the culture wars behind them, it remains to be seen if this latest decision by Streeting will negatively affect the public’s perception of the Labour Party in the crucial early days of Starmer’s administration.
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Grant Gallacher is a seasoned writer with expertise in politics and impactful daily news. His work, deeply rooted in addressing issues that resonate with a wide audience, showcases an unwavering commitment to bringing forth the stories that matter. He is also known for satirical writing and stand up comedy.