The Liberal Democrats have faced criticism for allegedly softening their stance on women’s rights following substantial donations from a prominent supporter of transgender causes. Simon Ruddick, a major financier who has donated over £200,000 to the party this year, is known for his outspoken backing of transgender rights, describing support for trans communities as a key priority due to their perceived marginalization.

Concerns have emerged after senior party figures, including leader Sir Ed Davey and women and equalities spokeswoman Marie Goldman, publicly challenged guidance issued by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). The code of practice, introduced in May and based on a 2025 Supreme Court ruling, clarifies that under the Equality Act 2010, “sex” refers to biological sex. This means single-sex services must be provided on the basis of biological sex, with the implication that trans women should not have access to women-only spaces such as toilets and changing rooms.

The campaign group Sex Matters has accused the Liberal Democrats of retreating from protecting sex-based rights. Helen Joyce, director of advocacy at Sex Matters, highlighted the party’s recent actions, including the majority of its MPs signing an early day motion opposing the EHRC code, which she described as legally unsound. She suggested the timing of these moves correlated suspiciously with Ruddick’s large donations.

In June, Davey and Goldman wrote to Bridget Phillipson, the government’s minister for women and equalities, urging the withdrawal of the EHRC guidance. This prompted Liberal Voice for Women, an internal party group advocating for women’s rights, to accuse the leadership of disregarding the concerns of women dependent on single-sex spaces. Baroness Ludford, a Liberal Democrat peer, expressed her disappointment and confusion over Davey’s position, given his previous acceptance of the Supreme Court judgment.

Ruddick, who has supported the Liberal Democrats since his involvement with the party in 1979, denied any influence over party policy. He said he donated because he aligned with the party’s values and that he had no expectation or involvement in shaping its decisions.

In response to the criticism, the Liberal Democrats maintained that the party’s approach to the EHRC code was independent of any donations. A spokesperson emphasized that the party’s policies are democratically determined by members at conferences and highlighted that the party welcomes support from individuals who share its vision.

The debate reflects ongoing tensions within UK politics over the balance between transgender rights and sex-based protections, with the Liberal Democrats navigating competing pressures both within their ranks and from external advocacy groups.