Labour has defended the arrangements for its Women's Conference in Liverpool, saying they reflect both its commitment to women's political participation and its view of the law. Several affiliated unions are boycotting the formal proceedings because trans women cannot participate as delegates.
The conference takes place on Saturday 26 September, ahead of Labour's annual conference. Its main programme includes speeches, debates and policy sessions for women delegates, while the fringe programme and exhibitions are open to anyone with a Women's Conference or Annual Conference pass.
Trans women cannot enter the main conference hall as delegates or vote in its proceedings. That distinction has become the focus of protests and union boycotts, with critics arguing that access to fringe events does not replace a voice in Labour's formal women's structures.
Labour and unions set out opposing views
A Labour spokesperson said the party was committed to advancing women in politics and providing opportunities for members to "network, debate and contribute". The spokesperson said the conference reflected Labour's commitment to addressing women's underrepresentation, inclusion and "compliance with the law". The statement was shared by Labour Women's Declaration in material supplied to Labour Home.
ASLEF said on Saturday that its Annual Assembly of Delegates had voted to boycott the event because trans women were excluded from attending the formal conference. Unison, Usdaw and the Musicians' Union have also said they would not send delegations. Their objection concerns participation in the decision-making programme, rather than attendance at every event held alongside it.
Labour Women's Declaration welcomed the party's decision. In a statement on the conference, the group argued that debates and votes should be reserved for women under its interpretation of the Equality Act. It has also called for a full two-day Women's Conference in future, saying one day gives members too little time for policy debate.
The question facing Labour
The arrangements follow the Supreme Court's 2025 judgment concerning the meaning of "woman" in the Equality Act. Labour told members that it was reviewing its positive action measures and would interpret references to women in party procedures on the basis of biological sex pending that review. The party postponed its 2025 Women's Conference while considering the implications.
The return of the conference gives delegates a forum for women's policy priorities after that postponement. It also leaves Labour facing a continuing dispute within its own movement over who can take part in that forum's decisions.
