Poll finds strong opposition to gender self-identification plans

 (Photo: Getty/iStock)

A Sunday Times poll has revealed widespread opposition to Scottish legislation that will make it easier and quicker for people to change their legal gender. 

The survey asked over 1,000 adults in Scotland their views on the Scottish government's gender self-identification plans. 

The Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill proposes cutting the waiting period for a gender recognition certificate from the current two years to three months with a further three-month 'reflection period', but half of those surveyed said they were opposed to this, with only a quarter backing it.

Other plans include lowering the age limit at which people can change their gender from 18 to 16 but the survey found strong opposition to this - 62% were against compared to only 19% in favour.

Scots were also more likely to oppose plans to remove the requirement of a medical diagnosis of gender dysphoria. Only a quarter (26%) support this proposal, while over a third (39%) are opposed or don't know (35%). 

The Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill will be debated by MSPs on 27 October. 

The Christian Institute is urging Scots to get in touch with their local MSPs to voice their concerns before the debate in the Scottish Parliament. 

"It is clear that most voters do not agree with removing the legal safeguards that currently exist. It is important that Christians make their voices heard," said Christian Institute director, Colin Hart. 

"Please join with us in giving thanks for such widespread opposition to the Scottish Government's plans. Pray that it would continue to grow."

Newsletter Stay up to date with Christian Today
News
Who was Mother Julian of Norwich and why is she important?
Who was Mother Julian of Norwich and why is she important?

8 May is the traditional day to remember Mother Julian of Norwich. She is important because her book remains a classic of Christian spirituality and is the first book in English known to have been written by a woman. This is her story …

'Dark day' as retired pastor is convicted for preaching John 3:16 near abortion facilities
'Dark day' as retired pastor is convicted for preaching John 3:16 near abortion facilities

A retired pastor has been found guilty of breaching an abortion clinic 'safe access zone' after he preached a sermon on John 3:16. 

'Managerial' secularism becoming commonplace across Europe, says rights group
'Managerial' secularism becoming commonplace across Europe, says rights group

Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF) says that governmental restrictions on religions freedom have reached their highest level in Europe in two decades.

Faith plays key role in young people’s mental wellbeing - study
Faith plays key role in young people’s mental wellbeing - study

A new study suggests that religion can play a significant role in shaping the mental health and emotional resilience of young people, particularly when it is expressed through positive coping practices.