Ms Yvonne Woods:

Head 5(d) of the scheme of the Bill proposes issuing certificates only to people aged at least 18 on the date of application. We have in the past had a different position on the minimum age but have adjusted it in recent times because we have become more aware, through contacts with various groups and talking to transgender people, that this is not inclusive. Now we suggest that the minimum age be 16, with consent of a parent or guardian as well as the applicant himself or herself. This is also the age at which young persons can consent to medical treatment. We have also suggested that consideration be given to the creation of a provisional or temporary gender recognition certificate for younger applicants. Such certificates could be renewed or converted into full recognition certificates at the age of 16 or 18. This recognises the fact that young people are declaring themselves and coming forward at an earlier age, with the support of their families, and need to be recognised by the legislation, which is currently not the case.

The necessity for a treating physician's statement under head 6 of the Bill moves back to treating transgenderism as a medical disorder.