Scottish Government Drops Legal Battle on Gender Law Veto

The Scottish government has dropped its legal bid against a UK veto on a gender recognition law.

Despite Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville's assurance of commitment to transgender rights, she announced there's no way forward after the Court of Session upheld the veto.

The UK government plans to reclaim £150,000 legal costs. The blocked bill simplified legal sex changes in Scotland, but raised safety concerns for some women's spaces.

UK ministers argued it conflicted with British equality laws. Scottish Conservative and Alba Party members expressed relief over the withdrawal, while the Scottish Greens and trans advocates were disheartened.

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack criticized the case's financial toll and underscored other national priorities.