Legal recognition of non-binary gender identities to be debated by MPs

Nick Fletcher MP, a member of the Petitions Committee, has been asked by the Committee to open the debate. MPs from all parties can take part, and Mike Freer MP, Minister for Equalities at the Cabinet Office, will respond for the Government.

Make non-binary a legally recognised gender identity in the UK

The petition, which has more than 140,000 signatures, states: “Have non binary be included as an option under the GRP (Gender Recognition Panel)/ GRC (Gender Recognition Certificate), in order to allow those identifying as non binary to be legally seen as their true gender identity. As well as having ‘Non-binary’ be seen as a valid transgender identity.”

In response to the petition, provided on 20 May 2021, the Government said: “As set out in the response to the Gender Recognition Act consultation, there are no plans to make changes to the 2004 Act.”

What are petitions debates?

Petitions debates are 'general' debates which allow MPs from all parties to discuss the important issues raised by one or more petitions, and put their concerns to Government Ministers.

Further information

• Find out more about the role of the Petitions Committee
• Find out more about select committees

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