Gender-critical detective loses tribunal case against Met Police over Trans Rights event

Detective Constable Melanie Newman has lost an employment tribunal case against the Metropolitan Police, where she alleged discrimination based on her gender-critical beliefs. Newman, who holds the view that biological sex is immutable, claimed she felt like “Daniel in the lion’s den” during a Met Police event celebrating Trans Day of Visibility in March 2023.

The event featured trans rights activist Eva Echo, who described gender-critical views as “twisted and warped” and likened their proponents to being “obsessed” and exhibiting “cult-like behaviour”. Echo also challenged common narratives about trans women and called on officers to confront anti-trans language.

Newman, who attended the event remotely while preparing for her shift, said she was disturbed by Echo’s remarks and the positive reception they received. She later filed complaints with the Met and pursued legal action, alleging harassment and discrimination based on her beliefs.

In response to the ruling, trans rights groups welcomed the decision. A spokesperson for TransActual UK said: “This ruling affirms that promoting understanding and inclusion of trans people in public institutions is not discriminatory. Events like Trans Day of Visibility are vital for raising awareness and challenging harmful stereotypes.”

Stonewall, the LGBTQ+ rights charity, also commented: “We support the tribunal’s recognition that trans people deserve to be heard and respected in workplaces. It’s important that public services like the Met Police create space for these conversations, especially in light of past institutional failings.”

The London South Employment Tribunal dismissed her claims, ruling that the Met’s decision to host the event and invite Echo was not discriminatory. Judge Christina Morton stated that the event was intended to promote understanding of trans rights and was not targeted at individuals with gender-critical beliefs. Attendance was voluntary, and Newman had joined out of personal interest.

The tribunal acknowledged Newman’s feelings of isolation but found no evidence of harassment or institutional bias. Following her complaints, the Met conducted a review and introduced the Gender Critical Network to support staff with similar views.