A FIFE MSP has hailed the passing of Gender Recognition Reform.

Mark Ruskell, Scottish Green MSP for Fife, has praised the bill as a "historic step for equality" for transgender people, not only in Fife but across the country.

He said: "I am delighted we have finally passed this legislation. This is a small but significant change that will make a big difference – it is a truly historic step for equality and for trans people in Fife and beyond.

“Trans rights are human rights and I am proud that our parliament has voted to bring Scotland closer in line with best international practice while improving the lives of our trans siblings.

“This crucial bill was a key part of the Bute House Agreement that we negotiated with the Scottish Government, and I am proud of the crucial role that we played in delivering it."

The new legislation will allow transgender people who self-declare their gender to obtain a gender recognition certificate. It is hoped that this bill will remove medical gate-keeping from the current process and ease the trauma, stress, pain and bureaucracy for the trans community.

He continued: "The debate brought out the best and worst of our Parliament. But this vote belongs to our trans and non-binary friends, colleagues, comrades and relatives – those who are amongst us, and those no longer with us – who have had to put up with delay, abuse, loss and grief. This is for you. We see you and we thank you.

"The future that I want is one where everyone can live, love and thrive as the people that they really are and have always been. This vote will take us a step closer to that day."