The High Court (Mrs Justice Lang) is today hearing a judicial review of emergency legislation introduced by the former Heath Secretary to restrict the availability to children and young people of gonadotrophin releasing hormone analogues (medication commonly known as ‘puberty blockers’).
The claim is brought by TransActual, a social enterprise whose goal is to improve the lives of transgender people in the UK, and a 14 year old trans girl who has been unable to access puberty blockers as a result of the new legislation.
The claimants argue that the former Health Secretary’s use of the emergency legislative process under s.62(3) of the Medicines Act 1968, and her failure to consult with affected individuals or their representatives, was unlawful and contrary to Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
Jason Coppel KC appears as leading counsel for the claimants, instructed by Michael Stacey and Lui Asquith of Russell Cooke LLP, and assisted by junior counsel including Christian Davies.
Julian Milford KC appears as leading counsel for the defendants.
