Compare and contrast: Reply from a Conservative MSP versus a Green MSP.
The Green MSP:
'Thank you for your email about the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill.
This proposed reform is one which I have long supported, and which my party promised to support in the 2021 Scottish Parliament election. The effect will be to make it easier for trans people to obtain a gender recognition certificate (GRC), a process which is currently much criticised by trans people and their allies.
I am aware of objections which have been raised, but I believe that many of these are based on misunderstandings. In particular, the legislation proposed will not affect access to single-sex spaces or services, which are already required not to discriminate against trans people unless this can be shown to be necessary in certain circumstances. This principle of non-discrimination is not dependent on GRC status, and this will remain the case following reform of the GRC process.
There are also concerns about the quality and accessibility of trans healthcare, and while this is not directly related to changes to the process for obtaining a GRC we are committed to improvement in these services. We have already secured crisis funding from the Scottish Government to begin the process of reforming these services, and we expect to bring waiting times in line with other NHS services as well as develop new delivery models. We also expect recommendations on the best ways to achieve equality for non-binary people.
These reforms are, in my view, long overdue. The delay in delivering them has been accompanied by a disturbing rise in transphobic sentiment in politics and in the media, as well as a rise in hate crime. I believe that the Scottish Government and all political parties have a responsibility to challenge transphobia, just as we must challenge homophobia, racism, misogyny, sectarianism and other forms of prejudice. Passing this legislation is only one step, but an important one, and I look forward to voting for it.'
Conservative:
'Thank you for contacting me regarding the SNP/Green Government’s Gender Recognition Reform Bill.
This is a very sensitive area of debate and there are strong views on all sides. We recognise the need to improve the process for trans individuals, however we also believe strongly in the need to protect vulnerable individuals and the rights of women and girls.
The Gender Recognition Reform Bill as drafted does not get this balance right. We are concerned that, among other issues, the Bill reduces the minimum age to 16, removes the need for medical evidence and significantly reduces the period that applicants must live in their acquired gender for those seeking a Gender Recognition Certification.
Scottish Conservative MSPs were allowed a free vote because this debate needs to be constructive with concerns about the Bill listened to and addressed. Nicola Sturgeon must address the concerns that have been expressed by her own MSPs with the legislation.
Thank you once again for taking the time to contact me on this issue.'
No prizes for guessing who would now get my vote?
Yes, the one who didn't imply I am a transphobic bigot for standing up for my sex-based rights and children's safeguarding needs.