A Labour spokesman speaks, finally:

“Labour fully supports gender equality in all areas of society and all cultures. Equally, we support those who are breaking down barriers where inequality remains. There was no forced segregation. Speakers at the event included both women and men. Everyone was together in one room and all were treated equally and respectfully.”

So apparently it wasn’t forced and just happened naturally. Of course…

Funny looking definition of “all were treated equally”.

UPDATE:

@GuidoFawkes Funny, attendees still telling me they were told by the organisers they couldn't sit in mixed groups…

— Kate Maltby (@KateMaltby) May 5, 2015