Reform UK Accused of Targeting 'Misogynists and Homophobes' with Equality Act Repeal Plan
Reform UK has been sharply criticised for allegedly "pitching for the votes of misogynists, homophobes, racists and antisemites" following an announcement by Suella Braverman, the party's new equalities chief, to scrap the Equality Act if they win the next election. The controversial proposal was unveiled during a press conference in London where Nigel Farage introduced Reform's top team, appointing Mrs Braverman as education, skills and equalities spokesperson.
Braverman's Controversial Stance on Protected Characteristics
Addressing the conference, Suella Braverman declared that Reform would repeal the Equality Act on day one of a potential government, arguing that Britain is being "ripped apart by diversity, equality and inclusion" policies. She described the act's protected characteristics—including age, disability, gender reassignment, marital status, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation—as "pernicious" and "divisive." Additionally, Braverman announced plans to ban social and gender transitioning in all schools, stating it would "bring an end to the transgender chaos in schools" and claiming children are taught more about "gender ideology than biological fact."
Charities and Lawyers Condemn the Move as a Step Backwards
The announcement has drawn fierce backlash from equalities charities and legal experts. Jo Maugham KC, executive director of the Good Law Project, accused Braverman of appealing to bigots, warning that her comments on banning social transition could lead to policing children's appearances like haircuts and clothing, which he called "unworkable" and reminiscent of "North Korean" control. Dr Paul Martin OBE, chief executive of the LGBT Foundation, emphasised that the Equality Act is crucial for protecting against discrimination in work, healthcare, education, and public services, calling equality a foundation for a fairer Britain.
A spokesperson for Stonewall added that anyone working on equality issues should believe in fundamental equality for marginalised groups. Meanwhile, disability charity Sense warned that removing the act's protections would be a "significant step backwards," increasing uncertainty for millions of disabled people and undermining their rights to fair treatment in employment, education, housing, and services, as highlighted by Harriet Edwards, the charity's strategy lead.
Braverman Defends Plan Amid Criticism
In her speech, Braverman questioned why "white working-class boys" have poor educational outcomes and promised to abolish the equalities department and minister role. She argued for a country based on meritocracy, personal responsibility, excellence, and unity rather than tokenism and division. When pressed on potential impacts, such as on maternity leave protections, she clarified that scrapping the act aims to eliminate protected characteristics but would still ensure workplace protections for those with legitimate needs, balancing against what she called a divisive industry.
Reform UK has not provided further comment on the matter, leaving the proposal to stir debate over discrimination safeguards in Britain.
