Source · Select Committees · Women and Equalities Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Paragraph: 122
We agree with the Government Equalities Office that the age of 18 is the appropriate...
Conclusion
We agree with the Government Equalities Office that the age of 18 is the appropriate age at which an individual should be able to decide on whether they want to apply for legal gender recognition. Part of the process of applying for legal recognition is making a statutory declaration. It would not be appropriate to expect a minor to accept that responsibility. The age of 18 is a suitable age for a person to consider the current and future ramifications of legally transitioning and to be asked to make a statutory declaration. This is consistent with the law relating to other long-term, legally binding undertakings.
Paragraph Reference:
122
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
15. We acknowledge the Committee’s recommendation regarding engagement with the work of the Committee. We recognise how important it is for departments to be held accountable, and that scrutinising the work of the GEO, and the wider Equality Hub, is a core element of the Committee’s functions. The Government wholly commits to engaging fully with the Committee and continuing to build a constructive relationship.