JK Rowling has accused Humza Yousaf of showing “absolute contempt” for women’s rights after he confirmed transgender women would be protected under the SNP’s new misogyny laws.
The first minister confirmed that “anyone affected” by ingrained prejudice or hatred against women would be covered by the legislation, whatever their biological sex.
The hate crime act, which became active on April 1, does not include sex as one of the protected characteristics, which Yousaf said followed discussions with women’s groups, many of which are funded by the Scottish government.
Instead, misogyny will be tackled after a review carried out by Baroness Helena Kennedy KC, the human rights lawyer. Yousaf said he would bring legislation forward shortly after this summer’s parliamentary recess and has committed to
