Men-only clubs will not be outlawed denied Men-only clubs will not be banned
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.THE GOVERNMENT last night denied reports that it has secret plans to ban men-only members clubs following admissions from ministers that clubs that barred women from membership were "anachronisms".
The moves were said to be being discussed by at least four ministers, including the Cabinet Office Minister, Mo Mowlam. They would lead to the end of membership restrictions from every body ranging from the 17th century St James' club in London to golf clubs and the traditional Labour bastion, the working men's club.
It was claimed that private clubs, exempted by the Sex Discrimination Act, would be modernised under an amendment to the Equal Opportunities Bill in the next session of parliament. Senior Labour figures are said to be heartened by recent about-turns by men-only stalwarts such as the MCC which last year voted to admit women after 211 years.
A Government spokesman rejected reports of new laws in the pipeline. Many topics were covered in ministerial discussions on equality but Government plans for anti-dis-crimination legislation did not extend beyond public bodies.
Last night Nicholas Soames, the former Tory defence minister, who is a member of White's, Pratt's and the Turf, said: "This is another sign that living under new Labour is like living in Soviet Russia.What sensible woman wants to be a member of a men's club?"
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments