Starmer accuses Sunak of using trans issues as ‘political football’

Keir Starmer criticized Rishi Sunak for exploiting transgender issues for political gain and creating division during their debate on Wednesday.

The two individuals argued over a question about their commitment to safeguarding women's access to gender-segregated spaces, regardless of their possession of a gender recognition certificate.

The prime minister announced that he will definitely amend the law to ensure that the previous Equalities Act acknowledges that sex refers to biological sex.

Starmer promised to defend areas designated for women but stated he has no plans to change laws in order to accomplish this.

The leader of the Labour party said during the BBC debate at Nottingham Trent University that Sunak needs to take a look at the existing legislation and claimed that the safeguards are already in place. He urged Sunak not to turn this issue into a political tool to create divisions among people.

Starmer also mentioned that he understands that some individuals are born into a gender that does not align with their identity. He assured that he will treat these individuals with the same respect and dignity given to all people.

Let me explain, if we don't speak up, things like the Prime Minister of the UK mocking transgender individuals in front of the mother of a murdered trans teen can happen.

Sunak responded: "I didn't do that. I was highlighting the fact that you have contradicted yourself on this issue several times."

Starmer mentioned Sunak's alleged disrespectful comments towards transgender individuals during a session in the House of Commons. This incident occurred when the mother of Brianna Ghey, a transgender teenager who was tragically killed, visited parliament back in February.

The leader of the Labour party was criticized by the prime minister for not being able to clearly explain what a woman is. This was just one of the issues mentioned in which he had changed his position. Esther Ghey was present in the audience just four days after her 16-year-old daughter's murderers were sentenced to life in prison.

The BBC prime ministerial debate ended in a tie, as per a quick survey by YouGov. 50% of respondents believed that Sunak did the best job, while the other 50% thought Starmer was the standout performer.