Because it is contentious, a UK passport loophole that allows people to alter their gender with a doctor’s letter is being examined.
It has been claimed that ministers are considering closing this “big loophole” that makes it easy for people to change their gender on official documents.
According to the Daily Mail, anyone who meet the conditions can now get a passport that reflects their “acquired gender.”
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These include supplying proof of a legal name change and a statement from a medical expert stating that the transformation is anticipated to be permanent.
In addition, a quick legal declaration confirming their new identity is all that is needed for applicants to modify the sex listed on a driver’s license.
Concerns about a “self-ID by the back door” have been voiced by critics, who point out possible security risks.
Official data indicates that a considerable number of people choose the process every year since it is less complicated than getting a Gender Recognition Certificate in order to officially change their gender, as Daily Mail notes.
The UK’s Equalities Minister, Kemi Badenoch, is reportedly considering possible steps to close the gap that has spurred conversations about transgender rights.
“This is a major loophole that is made more problematic by the fact that passports and driving licenses are frequently used as evidence when applying for a Gender Recognition Certificate,” a government source told Daily Mail on Sunday night.
“The Home Office and Department for Transport need to take this seriously right away.”
Data released under the Freedom of Information Act purports to show that during 2022, the HM Passport Office approved 259 applications to change the “sex marker” on passports from male to female.
Furthermore, it has been reported that 269 applications for the opposite modification—changing the “sex marker” from female to male—have been authorized by the agency.
In addition to 1,731 applications from women to men, 1,457 applications from men to women have been authorized since 2018.
This clarifies the ongoing discussions in the UK over transgender rights and potential changes to the present passport system.