Consultation commences on
specific public sector duties
Consultation has
commenced on proposals for draft regulations setting out the specific duties designed
to enable to public sector bodies to carry out the revised single public sector
general equality duty more effectively when it comes into force in April 2011.
The Equality Act 2010
enables the Government to make regulations imposing specific duties on public bodies
listed Schedule 19 of the Act to enable them to carry out the single public
sector general equality duty (GED) more effectively. With the Government
confirming that it plans to implement the single GED in April 2011, which adds
sexual orientation, religion or belief and age to the scope of the existing
duties relating to gender, race and disability, the Equalities Office has
commenced consultation, ‘Equality
Act 2010: The public sector Equality Duty: Promoting equality through
transparency‘, on its proposals.
Chapter 5 sets out the
proposals for specific duties to help public bodies fulfil the aims of the
general equality duty. Chapter 6 sets out proposed transitional arrangements
from the three current public sector equality duties to the new single duty.
Chapter 7 sets out proposals to list additional bodies to those already listed
in Schedule 19 who will become subject to the general duty and the specific
duties. Consultation closes on 10 November 2010.
September 2010
This provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out all of the facts, the legal arguments presented and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, we cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.