Ban on kids changing gender in schools faces delay – sparking urgent calls from Tory MPs

A BAN on kids changing gender in school faced being delayed until after the election. 

Fears are growing that Rishi Sunak will kick new trans rules into the long grass to avoid a damaging Tory civil war.

Long-awaited guidance for teachers was supposed to be published in July but was pulled at the last minute.

Government lawyers had warned that a proposed block on pupils identifying as the opposite sex would require fresh legislation.

It was widely expected this would feature in the PM’s annual to-do list at November’s King’s Speech. 

But Tory MPs are getting jittery that it could be pushed back as ministers look to avoid party splits ahead of the election.

Mr Sunak is being pulled in opposite directions with some backbenchers wanting him to stop kids transitioning while others want a softer approach.

One well-placed government insider told The Sun that work on the trans rules has all-but stopped over the summer and is being sat on by No10.

Another said: “There’s a debate about whether they want to change the law, which will take ages, or do it with guidance now – which seems to be what some in the Department for Education prefer. The King’s Speech is already filling up fast.”

With an election next year time is tight to ram any new laws through Parliament. 

The grassroots ConHome website reckoned backbenchers could try to hijack any legislation to push through their own views on gender with amendments.

Former Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi told The Sun: “It’s really important that schools get some sensible guidance on this tricky issue – parents and teachers alike need the support.

“Social transitioning is not a neutral action, and we run a real risk to children’s health if adequate protections and support aren’t there.”

Ex-schools minister Jonathan Gullis also last night urged ministers to stop dithering and give parents and teachers clarity with legislation.

The Tory MP told The Sun: “This is creating a nightmare for teachers, parents and pupils. The government has a responsibility to set out clear guidance for schools without delay.”

An Education Department spokesman said: “Given the complexity and sensitivity of the issue, we’re taking the time to make sure any guidance we provide is as clear as possible.

“We’ve been repeatedly clear about the importance of biological sex and we advise that schools and colleges proceed with caution – prioritising the safeguarding and wellbeing of all children and involving parents in decisions relating to their child.”