Twist in NHS Fife tribunal as board tries to alter defence

11th-hour changes announced in trans case

- By Dave Walker

THE Sandie Peggie employment tribunal saw another significant twist yesterday as NHS Fife’s legal team attempted to smuggle in a last-minute amendment.

Jane Russell KC wants to amend the proceedings to rely on a new defence that the nurse manifested her gender critical beliefs in an objectionable manner.

It led to an outcry in the court room as Naomi Cunningham, representing Ms Peggie, objected and pointed out that if it were allowed, the tribunal would need to recall both the claimant and respondent to deal with it.

It would push back a decision even further, most probably into next year.

Ms Russell concluded her closing statement on Tuesday, accusing Ms Peggie of showing a “surprising level” of dislike, mockery and disgust towards her colleague Dr Beth Upton.

Ms Peggie confronted the trans medic in the women’s changing rooms and asked what they were doing there.