Equality News
Equality and Human Rights Commission welcomes outlawing of age discrimination
The Equality and Human Rights Commission welcomes the statement from Harriet Harman, Leader of the House of Commons, announcing the new Single Equality Bill. It is a proposal that offers a valuable starting point for shaping modern, simple equality law fit for the 21st century. At its most basic, we want a new fairness act aimed at allowing everyone, whatever their background, to fulfil their ambitions.
The Equality Bill is a critical piece of legislation for the Commission which as regulator in this area sets standards and ensures individuals and organisations are treated fairly. The current law is complex, contradictory and confusing. If these proposals translate into a Bill that works in practice it will create a positive opportunity for the Commission to meaningfully fulfil its remit to create a fairer society for everyone, regardless of their background.
The proposals have a number of specific implications for the Commission which include:
- Helping service providers (hospitals, schools, local authorities etc) prepare for the changes required by the extension of the law covering discrimination in the provision of goods, facilities and services to cover age.
- Monitoring transparency and collection of data on issues of equality in the public sector and the effect of the public sector procurement in the private sector.
- Specific inquiries into the financial and professional services sector and the construction industries – sectors that benefit from a large amount of public sector procurement. The starting point for these inquiries, which will be launched this year, will be a period of evidence gathering.
- The development of an equality “kite-mark” designed to highlight best practice in the private sector.
- Producing guidance for employers about how to use positive action to help them achieve better services and delivery.
For more information contact the Equality and Human Rights Commission Media Office on 02031170255, out of hours 07767272818.
Notes
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is a statutory body established under the Equality Act 2006, which took over the responsibilities of Commission for Racial Equality, Disability Rights Commission and Equal Opportunities Commission.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is the independent advocate for equality and human rights in Britain. It aims to reduce inequality, eliminate discrimination, strengthen good relations between people, and promote and protect human rights.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission will enforce equality legislation on age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation or transgender status, and encourage compliance with the Human Rights Act. It will also give advice and guidance to businesses, the voluntary and public sectors, and to individuals.