THERE are rarely easy decisions in government, but plenty of important ones — and none more so than when it comes to the safety of children.
Over recent years, the Labour Party have demonstrated their moral cowardice when it comes to standing up for what is right.
Time and again they fail to make the tough decisions and instead choose the path of political convenience.
As Conservatives, we won’t do that.
In the last decade alone, we’ve seen the number of children seeking medical support for gender services grow 20 times higher.
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We simply do not know enough about what is behind this enormous growth in vulnerable children questioning who they are.
It is a point made clearly in Dr Cass’s final report that thankfully injects much-needed common sense and evidence into this debate.
It couldn’t have come soon enough.
You cannot help but be moved by the stories of the vulnerable children at the heart of her report — boys and girls who underwent life-changing treatment that may not have been in their best interests.
Too many adults rushed to praise and encourage children to question their gender when — as Dr Cass says — the medical evidence was shaky.
It is clear a vocal minority has overshadowed this issue, and far too many have stayed silent in the name of political correctness.
We’ve seen this most of all in the Shadow Cabinet, who have spent years ignoring the issue, with Keir Starmer unable to even define a woman, as according to him some of us have a penis.
Worse still, many including the Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting have actively promoted and pursued an agenda without pausing to consider the risks and dangers associated.
In stark contrast, our party’s approach protects children from being allowed to make hasty decisions that could be the first step along an irreversible path.
Dr Cass’s work and advice was instrumental as we developed draft guidance for schools having to deal with this issue up and down the country.
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Our approach in schools is cautious and strengthens safeguards.
First and foremost, we must make sure we are keeping all children safe and protected.
These principles are well embedded in our gender-questioning guidance — in particular, the central importance of involving parents in decisions about their children and what they are taught.
We must end the scandal of schools helping kids socially transition behind the backs of their mums, dads, and carers.
Our approach in schools is cautious and strengthens safeguards
Dr Cass’s report shows our cautious approach is right, and those who look to undermine it are clearly not acting in children’s best interests.
In schools, we are also reviewing how we teach relationships, sex, and health education.
I will be able to say more soon.
I will not let the gender ideology of a small but vocal lobby push their agendas at the expense of young people.
