Boris Johnson says ‘biological males should not be competing in female sporting events’ | News News

Boris Johnson has said that “biological males should not be competing in female sporting events”.

Speaking to broadcasters on a hospital visit on Wednesday, the Prime Minister said: “I don’t think biological males should be competing in female sporting events. Maybe that is a controversial thing to say, but it just seems to me to be sensible.”

He continued: “I also happen to think that women should have spaces – whether it is in hospitals or prisons or changing rooms or wherever – which are dedicated to women.

“That doesn’t mean that I am not immensely sympathetic to people that want to change gender, to transition and it is vital that we give people the maximum possible love and support in making those decisions.”

The Prime Minster’s comments come after transgender cyclist Emily Bridges was last week barred from competing in the British National Omnium Championships after the sport’s governing body ruled she was not eligible.

Bridges, 21, who had been due to compete in a women’s event for the first time, set a national junior men’s record over 25 miles in 2018 and began hormone therapy last year to reduce her testosterone levels.

But British Cycling said it was informed by the UCI, cycling’s governing body, that Bridges was not eligible under its current guidelines.

“We have been in close discussions with the UCI regarding Emily’s participation this weekend and have also engaged closely with Emily and her family regarding her transition and involvement in elite competitions,” a British Cycling statement read.

It was also reported this week that Blair Hamilton, who was born male but identifies as female and currently plays for Hastings United Football Club women’s team, had been called up to represent the England Universities women’s squad.

The 32-year-old, a PhD student at the University of Brighton, who is also lead investigator of the Tavistock Transgender Athlete Study, shared her excitement over her selection on social media. “Buzzing for this though,” she said.

Hastings United Women tweeted: “The ‘U’s are delighted to announce Blair Hamilton has been selected for the England Universities Sport Women’s Squad.”

More to follow….

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