Royal College of Nursing claims no position on gender debate in tribunal

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) stated it has “no position” on the debate regarding gender ideology and biological sex during an employment tribunal. RCN England chief executive Patricia Marquis testified that the organization aims to balance the diverse views of its 600,000 members, describing the membership as “pretty reflective of society.”

The tribunal involves Sandie Peggie, who has brought legal action against the RCN alleging direct discrimination based on her gender-critical beliefs. The RCN denies these allegations. Ms. Peggie previously engaged in legal proceedings against NHS Fife following an incident in December 2023 involving a shared changing room with a transgender medic, a case in which she received a partial victory regarding harassment claims.

During cross-examination, Ms. Peggie’s barrister, Naomi Cunningham, challenged the RCN’s claim of neutrality. Cunningham argued the union had “picked a side” by adopting certain symbols, such as selling badges featuring the Pride flag, which she suggested was strongly associated with gender ideology.