‘Handmaid’s Tale future’: Reform’s Matt Goodwin sparks outcry with fertility comments

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Alexandra Topping Political correspondentFebruary 13, 2026 at 06:59 PM

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Reform UK candidate Matt Goodwin is facing criticism for comments made in a November 2024 YouTube video regarding women and fertility. Goodwin stated that British women are having children too late in life and need a "biological reality" check. The comments, reported by the Independent, have drawn backlash from MPs and equality campaigners, who find them offensive and reminiscent of a "Handmaid's Tale future." Goodwin also appeared to agree with Jordan Peterson's claim that universities are filled with "childless women" and are hotbeds of "politically correct authoritarianism." These revelations follow previous reports that Goodwin suggested taxing people who don't have children. The controversy has emerged during Goodwin's campaign for the Gorton and Denton byelection.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Bolsover 30% Margaret Atwood 40% Independent 40% Jordan Peterson ×250% Gorton and Denton 50% Sarah Owen 60% Britain ×260% Natalie Fleet ×370% Reform UK 70% Matt Goodwin ×490%

Keywords

matt goodwin 100% fertility comments 90% handmaid's tale 80% reform uk 70% biological reality 70% childbearing age 60% tax on childless 60% politically correct authoritarianism 50% women and equalities 50%

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Very Negative

Score: -0.70

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The Guardian - World News

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90%

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Britain

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matt goodwin fertility comments handmaid's tale reform uk biological reality childbearing age tax on childless politically correct authoritarianism women and equalities

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