Health Secretary Wes Streeting has sparked outrage following an interview with Mumsnet in which he described the presence of "trans men in women’s spaces" as “undignified and unpleasant for everyone concerned”. The remarks, made during a Q&A with Mumsnet founder Justine Roberts, have intensified criticism of Streeting’s stance on trans rights and prompted accusations of promoting “trans segregation.”

Streeting was responding to a question about NHS policies that allow trans individuals to access wards and facilities aligned with their gender identity. He said: “I don’t think anyone, for example, would think it desirable for a trans man - so someone who’s born female, but to all intents and purposes, you know, hairy arms, beard, voice, identity - then wanders into women’s toilets or goes to a women’s ward or another women’s space. I think that would be undignified and unpleasant for everyone concerned.” 

He went on to suggest the creation of “third spaces” for trans women, separate from female single-sex facilities, as a compromise that “treats people with dignity and respect.” Roberts responded by asking if this meant third spaces, to which Streeting replied, “I think for trans women, yes, that is where we’re looking.” 

The comments have been condemned by LGBTQ+ advocates and civil rights groups, who argue that such proposals are discriminatory and impractical. Critics say the idea of segregated spaces for trans people reinforces harmful stereotypes and risks outing individuals, especially in healthcare settings.

Streeting’s remarks are the latest in a series of controversial statements on trans issues. Earlier this year, he stated that trans women are not women and trans men are not men, citing “complexities” around gender identity. He has also met with gender-critical organisations and extended the ban on puberty blockers indefinitely, despite previously expressing regret over the anxiety caused by that decision. 

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Graham Robson
Graham Robson

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