I thank the Minister very much for his immensely helpful statement, while reminding him that the rights of another group do not supersede the rights of the group that is already there. In other words, it is not really worth listening to the simple comment, “Women and trans women are equal”. We are all equal under the law; we all have dignity and equal rights. My contention is that the dignity, privacy and safety of women patients, which have been fought over for several decades in both Houses, are now being diminished significantly and their health and recovery from illness significantly undermined by the imposition of new rights of others on top of women’s rights. It amuses me that no one is suggesting they should be on top of men’s rights.
This is, I am afraid, a matter of great concern to all women. I know that Members of other Benches have demanded evidence. I can guarantee that, within 24 hours, if you wish it, I can get 20,000 to 40,000 letters in front of the Minister claiming that women need privacy, safety and dignity, and that they are not receiving it with these new impositions. If noble Lords want evidence, feel free.
9.15 pm
I deliberately did not raise the case the noble Baroness, Lady Brinton, has seen fit to raise, of the lady on Twitter. I know her, she has many problems. I know exactly who she is, her name and where she lives. She
has invited me to visit her, and I probably will. I know that she has problems and therefore I have persuaded her to get off Twitter and not to cause herself any more distress. She is very poorly, and I do not think that was a fair person to bring up.
I thank the Minister immensely. I fully accept his offer that we will be having this review, but I ask that we are all involved in it. I know that women have not been involved in the earlier discussion that produced this extraordinary annexe B. I withdraw the amendment.