Fran’s speech in full

PCS supports the motion.

We think it’s very good motion which sets out positive action for supporting our trans and non-binary members.

The government’s blocking of the Scottish Parliament’s Gender Recognition Reform Bill was outrageous.

And it has to be said that Keir Starmer’s instruction to Labour MPs to abstain on the Tory government’s use of the Scotland Act, allowed it to pass.

Reform of gender recognition processes is essential to remove barriers to our trans and non-binary comrades. The current restrictions on acquiring legal recognition cause unnecessary harm and suffering to trans and non-binary people, emotionally, physically and financially, and removing these barriers must be a priority.

The lengthy and invasive process of acquiring medical evidence to support a change in legal identity must be streamlined and simplified, and non-binary people must be given legal recognition.

The Tories present their actions to voters as prioritising women’s rights.

The idea that the Tories are defenders of women’s interests would be laughable if it wasn’t so shameful.

86 per cent of the impact of the UK Government’s austerity policies since 2010 have fallen on women; from the scandal of poverty pay in female-dominated sectors such as nursing and social care, to the drastic cuts in vital local services.

British women at work endure the highest childcare costs in Europe, while our pensions are among the lowest.

It’s true that sex and gender have become contentious issues. But we mustn’t let Tory politicians provoke more angry online discourse. We mustn’t allow them to prevent constructive conversations on trans rights.

At last years’ Congress I argued that to resolve tensions amongst our members and activists it’s essential that there is discussion and debate.

Women members of PCS are raising legitimate concerns over some issues. Others are raising concerns from an opposite, polarised position. The discussion of ideas, allowing people to explore their concerns and find ways of uniting, is a vital part of building wider support for trans rights.

I’m pleased to say this year that in PCS we are building that unity and discussion, making people feel safe to express themselves.

The next stage in our work will be to discuss and consult on a civil service gender identity policy and any changes to the Equality Act, so that we can build unity in our ranks on a campaign against the Tories’ exploitation of the issues.

They are the real enemy.

PCS supports the motion.