Statement on the ruling against Freddy McConnell

Laura Russell, Director of Campaigns, Policy and Research, Stonewall said: ‘We’re incredibly disappointed to hear that Freddy McConnell has lost his appeal to be recognised as his child’s ‘father’ or ‘parent’.

'Once again, the Courts have missed a vital opportunity to send a positive message that recognises all parents, including LGBT parents, for who they are.

‘Today’s news is going to be a disappointing blow for trans communities. This is another example of how current legislation contradicts the fragile equality trans people currently have, where they can have full recognition on some legal documents, but not on others.

'Updating this legislation will also benefit others in the LGBT community, specifically same-sex parents, who face similarly inaccurate and unequal representation on their children’s birth certificates. Equality is not a luxury and this legislation desperately needs to be updated so trans people can be recognised for who they are.'