Battle lines drawn as UK government plans to block Scottish gender bill. Westminster block on Scotland’s gender recognition bill may be gift to the SNP - Libby Brooks. #Westminster #Holyrood #UnitedKingdom #Scotland #SNP

“I honestly can’t tell if I’m angry or exhausted, probably a mix,” said Arabel, one of a group of young trans Scots who shared their experiences with MSPs last year as the Holyrood parliament considered the gender recognition reform bill. 

The group’s frustration and weariness was palpable on Wednesday morning, following the announcement from Scottish secretary, Alister Jack, that he will block the bill – which simplifies the system by which transgender individuals change their gender and lowers the age of application to 16.

“I can’t even be angry, it’s just stupid, said 18-year-old Sid. “The UK government are making a great case for independence: they’re showing a complete lack of respect towards both trans people and Scotland.” 

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