Clause 2 - Determination of applications
Gender Recognition Bill [Lords]
4:00 pm
Dr Evan Harris (Oxford West and Abingdon, Liberal Democrat)
The Minister uses the term ''family'', and I question whether that is appropriate. In cases where, not surprisingly, there is estrangement, the family may know nothing about the transition. I understand that the panel needs to be satisfied and to obtain evidence from someone who knows the applicant, but, as in the case that I have mentioned, such evidence is likely to come from someone much better placed than the family, regardless of how they feel. I wonder why the word ''family'' is being used instead of the term ''a person with the ability to give evidence on that issue.''