King's College London Accused of Potentially Breaking Equality Law Over Pro-Trans Policy

King's College London (KCL) has come under fire for allegedly breaching equality law by mandating staff to support its pro-trans diversity policy in order to be considered for promotion. A legal opinion commissioned by the gender-critical group Sex Matters and authored by barrister Akua Reindorf KC found that KCL's policies, training materials, and guidance related to sex and gender reassignment are "incorrect as a matter of law in several substantial respects."

The controversy stems from KCL's requirement for staff to demonstrate allegiance to its equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) ambitions as a criterion for advancement. Reindorf stated that this policy "places those with gender-critical beliefs at a particular disadvantage." The legal opinion also raised concerns about KCL's commitment to allowing trans individuals to use facilities based on self-identification, which could undermine the institution's safeguarding duties.

Critics, including the Free Speech Union, have accused universities of basing their understanding of equality law on advice from activist organizations like Stonewall, which promotes gender identity ideology.

Why this matters: The case highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the interpretation and application of equality laws in educational institutions. It raises questions about the balance between promoting inclusivity and protecting the rights of individuals with differing beliefs on gender identity.

In response to the accusations, King's College London has stated that it regularly reviews its policies to ensure compliance with changing laws and that it takes pride in its work to foster an inclusive atmosphere on campus. The university now faces calls to urgently review its promotion and hiring policies, as they may be vulnerable to legal challenges. The Free Speech Union has criticized the university's understanding of equality law, asserting that it is based on misguided advice from activist groups and that the law is not as "woke" as they would like it to be.

Key Takeaways

• KCL mandates staff to support pro-trans policies for promotion, allegedly breaching equality law.
• Legal opinion finds KCL's policies and guidance on sex and gender reassignment are incorrect.
• KCL's policy disadvantages those with gender-critical beliefs, raising concerns about safeguarding.
• Critics accuse universities of basing policies on advice from activist groups like Stonewall.
• KCL faces calls to review its promotion and hiring policies, which may be legally vulnerable.