Defence chiefs may be forced to backtrack on their decision to spend £1.3 million on constructing 160 gender neutral toilets, according to recent revelations.
Robbing Women of Their Rights
Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch has raised concerns about such facilities, claiming that they infringe upon women's rights. Badenoch insists that all new buildings should include both male and female restrooms.
Spending Details
Most of the budget went towards converting 36 existing male and female toilets at the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst, Berkshire. An additional £15,000 was used to modify restrooms at the Ministry of Defence's main building in London. Furthermore, Freedom of Information requests uncovered the creation of eight mixed sex toilets at Navy HQ in Portsmouth and six at the Royal Naval College in Dartmouth, Devon.
Moving Away from Gendered Signage
In 2018, the Army caused controversy by removing "Ladies" and "Gentlemen" signs from toilets at its HQ in Andover, Hampshire. Additionally, RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire introduced nearly 100 gender neutral toilets.
A Change in Direction
However, the Department for Levelling Up, on Sunday, announced that all new non-residential buildings must provide "separate single-sex toilets for women and men or a self-contained, private toilet at a minimum." This marks a shift in policy.
Privacy and Dignity
Minister Badenoch emphasized the importance of privacy and dignity for everyone when using public facilities.
Backlash and Criticism
Col Richard Kemp, a former commander of British troops in Afghanistan, expressed his shock over the Army's involvement in what he deemed as excessive political correctness. He argued that, considering the demanding nature of their work, it's surprising that anyone would have the time to focus on these matters.
Prior Spending and Timing
The Ministry of Defence stated that the expenditure on gender neutral toilets was part of a broader renovation effort dating back several years. This occurred prior to the recent announcements highlighting the significance of separate restroom facilities.
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