Lawmakers are worried about a plan to lower the age at which people can legally change gender from 18 to 16

The Scottish government is to rethink its approach to transgender rights after a backlash from influential Nationalists and grassroots SNP members.

Senior Holyrood sources have told The Sunday Times that tension is growing within the party over a move to improve rights for trans men and women.

SNP whips have warned ministers of unease among MPs and MSPs about proposals to change the 2004 Gender Recognition Act, including concern that a move allowing individuals to self-affirm as transgender could place women in danger.

Lawmakers are also worried about a plan to lower the age at which people can apply to legally change gender from 18 to 16.

Shirley-Anne Somerville, social security minister, is said to share the reservations and has sought advice from colleagues. First