SNP opposition to gender recognition reform should be ‘respected’, Commons leader says

Stephen Flynn who, at the age of 34, alongside his deputy, 28-year-old Mhairi Black, marks a distinct generational shift in the SNP. Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The Guardian

Scottish National party politicians’ opposition to gender recognition reform should be “respected like any other conscience issue”, according to its new Westminster leader, Stephen Flynn.

Discussing the issue that has convulsed the SNP since he was elected Westminster group leader in December, the Aberdeen South MP said: “Ultimately, they are a member of the Scottish National Party just as much as I am”.