UK equalities minister Liz Truss has indicated that under-18s will be banned from having gender reassignment surgery. She said,

While children are developing their decision-making capabilities, they should not be able to make irreversible choices.

At present in the UK minors can undergo surgery but only with parental consent.

Ms Truss said: 'I believe strongly that adults should have the freedom to lead their lives as they see fit, but I think it's very important that while people are still developing their decision-making capabilities that we protect them from making those irreversible decisions.

'Of course some of these policies have been delayed by the specific issues around Covid but I can assure you that alongside the Covid work, our officials continue to do those things to make them happen.'

Other policies that will be addressed in the UK summer include ensuring single sex spaces will be protected in places such as women's jails, toilets and women's refuges.

Kirralie Smith, Binary spokeswoman, said the announcement was encouraging.

“Laws exist to protect children involving alcohol, driving and other permanent body changes such as tattoos. Minors need to be given time to mature into adulthood without being subject to treatments that are irreversible and potentially harmful. It is sensible and appropriate for the government to implement laws that keep our children safe.”