UK Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch is doubling down on her long-held stance on sex and gender after the UK Supreme Court ruled that the word “woman” in the Equality Act 2010 refers strictly to biological sex. In a pointed remark following the judgment, Badenoch stated, “I was RIGHT,” indirectly addressing criticism from actor David Tennant, who previously attacked her views on transgender rights.
The landmark legal ruling has sparked a fierce national debate on how sex and gender should be recognized in law and public policy, particularly in areas such as single-sex spaces, prisons, sports, and healthcare.
For a full overview of the ruling, read the official analysis on Reuters.
What Did the Supreme Court Rule?
On April 16, 2025, the UK’s highest court ruled that under the Equality Act 2010, the terms “woman” and “sex” refer to biological women only, even for individuals with a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC). This unanimous decision invalidated Scottish guidance that extended the legal definition of “woman” to include trans women with a GRC in public board roles.
The court clarified that the intention of Parliament in the Equality Act was to protect biological sex categories, not self-identified gender.
“The protected characteristic of sex refers to a person’s biological sex at birth,” the judgment stated.
You can follow updates via The Guardian’s live coverage.
Kemi Badenoch: “I Was RIGHT”
Reacting swiftly, Kemi Badenoch took to social media and later press briefings to affirm that the court had validated her stance. She has long advocated for legal clarity on sex-based rights, and in the wake of the decision, she announced plans for a broader review of gender recognition laws and the Equality Act.
Speaking to reporters, Badenoch said:
“This ruling shows that the law supports the protection of women’s spaces based on biological reality. I have always said this is what the law meant—and now the courts agree.”
Her remarks were not just a legal triumph—but a personal rebuke to critics, including actor David Tennant, who had publicly denounced her during the British LGBT Awards, saying he wished she would “shut up.”
David Tennant vs. Kemi Badenoch: The Feud Reignites
The tension between Tennant and Badenoch has simmered since the actor used his platform at the LGBT Awards to criticize the minister for her views on gender issues.
Tennant’s comment—“I’d really like her to shut up”—drew applause from the crowd but was condemned by many as inappropriate and dismissive of legitimate public discourse. Badenoch responded, saying:
“Disagreeing is fine. Wishing people would shut up when you don’t like what they say is the real problem with public debate today.”
This back-and-forth has now escalated, with Badenoch’s “I was RIGHT” comment perceived by many as a direct clap-back to Tennant’s remarks.
For further commentary, see The Times’ editorial.
Public and Political Reactions
Supporters Applaud Clarity
Women’s rights advocates such as For Women Scotland, who brought the original case, welcomed the ruling as a victory for sex-based rights. They argue that access to women’s spaces—such as changing rooms, hospital wards, and prisons—should be determined by biology, not gender identity.
LGBTQ+ Groups Sound the Alarm
Conversely, organizations like Stonewall UK and Mermaids criticized the decision as a step backward for trans equality, warning it could lead to increased discrimination and exclusion.
“This ruling erases trans women from legal recognition in critical areas,” said a spokesperson for Stonewall, calling for urgent legislative reform.
Legal and Policy Implications
The judgment has far-reaching effects across public services and private sectors:
- Single-sex spaces: Providers may now lawfully exclude trans women, even with a GRC, if deemed proportionate.
- Public appointments: Quotas for women on boards now apply only to biological women.
- Healthcare and prisons: Institutions can revise policy to segregate by biological sex.
In response, the UK government is preparing new guidance via the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC)to help schools, employers, and public bodies comply with the court’s interpretation.
Conclusion
Kemi Badenoch’s bold declaration—“I was RIGHT”—following the UK Supreme Court’s ruling on the legal definition of “woman” has stirred fierce debate across Britain. While some celebrate it as a triumph of legal clarity and biological reality, others view it as a setback for trans rights and inclusion.
As political and cultural tensions continue to rise, this ruling is poised to shape the future of equality legislation, gender recognition, and public policy for years to come.
For the latest developments, follow coverage at Reuters and The Guardian.
FAQs
1. What did the Supreme Court rule about the definition of a woman?
It ruled that “woman” under the Equality Act 2010 refers to biological females only, not trans women with a Gender Recognition Certificate.
2. Why did Kemi Badenoch say, “I was RIGHT”?
She has long argued that legal references to sex should reflect biological reality, a view now upheld by the Supreme Court.
3. What was David Tennant’s criticism?
Tennant previously said he wanted Badenoch to “shut up” over her stance on transgender rights, prompting a national debate.
4. Does the ruling affect trans people’s rights?
Yes, especially around access to single-sex services and legal protections, though trans rights under the Gender Recognition Act still apply in other contexts.
5. What’s next for UK gender laws?
The government plans to review and possibly update the Equality Act and Gender Recognition Act to align with the court’s ruling.
