Keir Starmer Queer Harmer

Are you concerned about the changes in trans healthcare policies and want to hold politicians accountable? Here’s a guide on how to ask key questions to Labour or Conservative MPs and politicians, film their responses, and share them on social media using the hashtag #KeirStarmerQueerHarmer.

Why These Questions Matter: Puberty blockers are medications that delay the onset of puberty. They are crucial for transgender youth. These medications allow them more time to explore their gender identity. This reduces the stress of developing secondary sexual characteristics that may not align with their gender identity. Recent policies have created significant barriers to accessing these medications, raising serious concerns about the well-being of trans youth.

1. Increase in Deaths on NHS Waiting List Question: Has Labour looked into the increase in deaths among those on the NHS waiting list since NHS England introduced a softer version of the ban?

Explanation: Highlight the importance of investigating the impact of policy changes on vulnerable populations, such as those awaiting crucial medical treatments.

2. Access to Puberty Blockers Privately Question: What steps have Labour taken to ensure that those prescribed puberty blockers privately can continue to access them, given the risks recognized by the ban’s structure?

Explanation: Emphasize the need for continuity of care for individuals already on puberty blockers, whether through private or public healthcare.

3. Restrictive Regime on Prescriptions Question: There are no private or NHS prescribers in the UK. There are plans to criminalize prescriptions from countries like Germany and Switzerland. Do you acknowledge that the UK now has the most restrictive, trans health, regime in the Western world?

Explanation: Discuss how restrictive policies can limit access to essential medical care and compare the UK’s stance to other Western countries.

4. Recommendations in Hilary Cass’ Report Question: Where in Hilary Cass’ report is the recommendation for the ban on puberty blockers that Labour is implementing?

Explanation: Point out the importance of basing policies on expert recommendations and evidence.

5. Consultation with Trans Families Question: Wes Streeting once said it was important to listen to trans people. Why is Labour now supporting a ban that followed instructions not to consult any trans families or organizations representing them?

Explanation: Stress the importance of inclusive policymaking that considers the voices of those directly affected.

6. Ignoring Civil Servants’ Warnings Question: Have you read the repeated submissions from civil servants warning of the risks to vulnerable young people due to the ban, and why is Labour ignoring these risks?

Explanation: Highlight the significance of heeding expert warnings to protect vulnerable populations.

7. Risk Assessment of the Ban Question: What assessment have you made of the risks to young trans people from continuing with the emergency ban? Have you made any assessments at all?

Explanation: Emphasize the necessity of thorough risk assessments before implementing policies that affect public health.

8. Political Appointments in NHS and Cass Review Question: Has Labour investigated whether key NHS and Cass Review appointments were political, given that Badenoch said the ban was possible only because her Government placed people with a specific ideological position into crucial health positions?

Explanation: Raise concerns about potential political bias in important health appointments.

9. Delay in Clinical Trials Question: Do you accept that Hilary Cass recommended a clinical trial two years ago, but no trial has yet started?

Explanation: Point out the delay in implementing recommended research that could inform better policies.

10. Questionable Judgment of Previous Secretary of State Question: Do you agree that the previous Secretary of State’s judgment is questionable for introducing the ban without wanting a clinical trial, despite Cass recommending one? If so, why are you endorsing her ban?

Explanation: Question the rationale behind endorsing policies without supporting evidence or research.

11. High Court Evidence on Suicide Risks Question: Have you read the High Court evidence from parents worrying about their children’s potential suicides due to the ban, and are you aware of the suicide attempts following its implementation? Did you read the evidence from parents about the positive effects of puberty blockers?

Explanation: Emphasize the real-life impact of the ban on young people and their families.

12. Addressing Risks of Unanticipated Consequences Question: Before introducing the ban, Badenoch was warned by senior civil servants of a “high risk of unanticipated consequences” that could harm patients. How have you addressed those risks?

Explanation: Stress the importance of mitigating risks before implementing significant policy changes.

13. Ignoring NHS Advice Question: The NHS advised that stopping treatment for an “extremely vulnerable group, liable to self-harm” would cause a larger patient safety issue than allowing them to continue treatment. Why are you ignoring this advice?

Explanation: Highlight the need to follow expert advice to avoid causing harm.

14. Ignoring Civil Servants’ Concerns Question: Civil servants repeatedly warned Badenoch about their concerns regarding the measures. They asked her to consider these risks. She ignored them. Why is Labour also ignoring these warnings?

Explanation: Question the reasons for disregarding multiple expert warnings.

15. Accountability for Potential Suicides Question: If young trans people take their own lives due to Wes Streeting decision to ignore professional advice but appease billionaires and the press, will press for him to resign?

Explanation: Hold politicians accountable for the potential consequences of their policies.

16. Reputable International Health Bodies Question: Can you name a reputable international health body that agrees with the NHS position under those selected for their political views? How confident are you that their views justify the UK being an international outlier?

Explanation: Question the validity of the policies in the context of international health standards.

Filming and Sharing Responses:

Approach Politicians: Attend public events or schedule an appointment with your MP to ask these questions.
Record the Interaction: Use your smartphone or camera to film their responses. Ensure the audio is clear.
Be Respectful but Firm: Ask your questions clearly and listen to their answers. Follow up if necessary.
Share on Social Media: Post the videos on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook using the hashtag #KeirStarmerQueerHarmer to raise awareness and spark discussion.

By asking these questions and sharing the responses, you can help hold politicians accountable and advocate for better healthcare policies for trans people. Let’s use our voices and the power of social media to make a difference.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article and for your commitment to holding our politicians accountable for their decisions affecting trans healthcare. These issues are crucial, and your involvement can make a significant difference.

We encourage you to share this article with trans people and our allies to spread awareness and inspire action. By working together, we can amplify our voices and push for policies that ensure the well-being and rights of trans individuals. Use the hashtag #KeirStarmerQueerHarmer to connect with others, share your experiences, and support each other in this fight for justice and equality.

Together, we can create a more inclusive and understanding society. Let’s keep the conversation going and hold our leaders accountable. Thank you for your support and solidarity.