Chamber and committees

Thank you. I appreciate that. I also appreciate your important reminder that the bill is about what we can do for trans people.

Your point about the impact on trans people is crucial with regard to not only post-legislative scrutiny but how trans people enjoy their human rights. I am particularly pleased to hear about the focus on the bill itself and what it actually does as opposed to other areas.

I have another question that touches on your point about representation. I have seen and am convinced by Close the Gap’s evidence, but can you set out for the record your understanding of the recent legal cases on the census and representation on public boards?

Good morning, panel. Thank you for your answers to the questions so far—I had many of those questions on my list, so I will skip them. I also thank you for the hugely helpful evidence that you gave in advance of your appearance before the committee this morning.

My first question is to all of you. How would you characterise Scotland’s support—or otherwise—of LGBT people now? How might that change if the bill is passed?

No, convener. My question has been covered.

Thank you for that. Professor Sullivan, do you have any comment on that aspect?

Thank you. Would any proposals in the current draft bill amend section 22 in any way, or would it remain as you have just described?

Can I just check: did you say that someone would not contravene section 22 by collecting data on sex?

People have presented concerns to us about the risks that are associated with self-identification and the risks to women. We heard some very compelling evidence this morning from the SHRC on that matter. However, I am aware that other countries have introduced self-identification and that it has been in place for some time. For example, Argentina introduced it nearly 10 years ago now. Therefore, as a legislator, I am asking you what other legislatures did about that. How did they navigate that issue?

Good morning. Thank you for your answers to the questions so far, Professor Sullivan, and I thank both panellists for the evidence that they have given ahead of today.

My first question is for Professor Sullivan and it is on data. What have you learned from your research colleagues in parts of the world where self-identification has been in place for some years? What impact have they found that there has been on data collection?

My next question is for both witnesses. Professor Sullivan already touched on this when she mentioned section 22 of the 2004 act. What are your views on how the proposed changes would affect single-sex spaces?

Some people have said that our laws are different and not comparable with those in other parts of the world, because of section 22, on protected information. What is your understanding of the impact of the proposed changes on section 22, and how other countries have handled similar situations?