Dame Nia Griffith

It is a real pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Mr Twigg. I start by thanking the hon. Member for raising the issues that she has raised this afternoon. I am going to call it more of a discussion than a debate, because I think the purpose of this session is to explore how we can express our beliefs freely, frankly and respectfully, upholding our shared values of tolerance and freedom of speech. Championing freedom of expression is critical, even when beliefs are varied or opposing. To be protected under the Equality Act, a philosophical belief must be genuinely held and more than just an opinion. It must be cogent, serious and apply to an important aspect of human life or behaviour. In case law, gender critical beliefs have been recognised as such, which this Government acknowledge and respect. The protection of philosophical belief under the Equality Act is one of the foundations of freedom of expression, ensuring that individuals can hold and express deeply held convictions without fear of discrimination, harassment or victimisation. This protection creates space for diverse beliefs in a democratic society. We must not forget that in many countries across the world, such protections do not exist. We should not take them for granted and must continue to view freedom of expression as a right, not a privilege. We must strive to protect freedom of expression for all, whether we agree or disagree, because we should challenge, probe and inquire, not shut down or silence. We will of course always protect the right not to be discriminated against, harassed or victimised. The Equality Act prohibits discrimination or harassment on the basis of a number of characteristics, including a person’s religion, belief, sex, sexual orientation or gender reassignment. That is why the Act is crucial in protecting us all and why we are proud to uphold it. Given the polarisation of belief on sex and gender issues, as well as the disagreement and discomfort such matters can provoke, I am glad that the hon. Member for Canterbury has been measured, considered and respectful, promoting a tone and quality of discussion that refuses to lower itself to the politics of division and anxiety. Let us carry that example forward beyond this Chamber. It is important that we continue to protect freedom of expression for all, and the hon. Member has set out some examples where the law has protected that freedom, but we must try to support people’s freedom of expression in the first place rather than simply relying on the courts.