The Government has been talking about it for what seems like forever, but finally we have the consultation paper on the Single Equality Act – one act to deal with all strands of discrimination thereby, in theory, simplifying the current discrimination legislation.
The legislation is intended to create a clearer and more accessible framework to replace the numerous unwieldy and complicated pieces of legislation which are currently in place. This is something which is extremely important for all employers who invariably will have to deal with these issues on a day to day basis, not least to avoid falling foul of the legislation in their dealings with employees.

However, the intention is that the act will do more than just simplify existing legislation, by prohibiting discrimination in the provision of goods and services as well as regulating private members’ clubs, education and impose further positive duties on public bodies.

The consultation paper seeks your views on a range of issues including:

• Harmonising the definition of indirect discrimination.
• Creation of a single definition of disability discrimination.
• Promoting the use of alternative dispute resolution as an alternative to tribunal/court claims
• The use of guidance (primarily from the new Commission for Equality and Human Rights) to promote good practice and compliance with the new legislation.
• Introducing a ‘Genuine Occupational Requirement’ exception for all strands of
  discrimination law (other than disability).

If you want to try and influence the final proposals, you have until 4 September 2007 to submit a response. A summary of the consultation paper can be found here which contains a link to the response form as well as to the full 190 page consultation paper!

Posted: July 10th, 2007 under Employment/HR.
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