Agenda item

To note (formulate or delegate a response if appropriate) the upcoming EHRC public consultation following the Supreme Court ruling on the definition of "sex" under the Equality Act 2010, and to consider any implications for the provision of single-sex and staff toilet facilities at the Corn Exchange and other public halls.  Further information available on this following link: https://dwfgroup.com/en/news-and-insights/insights/2025/4/ehrc-interim-guidance-a-practical-update-following-the-supreme-court-decision

With the permission of the Chair, the item was moved up the agenda.

The Committee had been asked to note the intention that EHRC were imminently to issue a public consultation following the Supreme Court ruling on the definition of "sex" under the Equality Act 2010 and to consider any implications for the provision of single-sex and staff toilet facilities at the Corn Exchange and other public halls. 

A Member raised that these changes were mandatory for public bodies however, felt that Witney Town Council should highlight its concerns with regards to the practicalities of introducing changes.

The Committee was concerned that it was overreach to include toilet provisions in the guidance however, a solution to change the use of the disabled toilet would meet the requirements of the court ruling but it was a person’s right to choose their sex, and it should not be viewed as a disability.

Cllr G Meadows proposed, and Cllr R Smith seconded that the Council consult with LGBTQ & disabled communities, who would be affected by the additional use of the designated toilet, prior to submission of a response from Witney Town Council by the Mayor, Leader of the Council, Cllr Meadows and Town Clerk. The Committee were unanimous in agreement with the proposal.

Recommended:

1.      That, the Council enter a submission to highlight their concerns the formation of which be delegated to the Mayor, Leader, Cllr Meadows and the Town Clerk; and

2.      That, the Council consult with groups prior to help inform its response.