Reform UK Unveils Plan to Scrap Equality Act
Reform UK has announced its intention to repeal the Equality Act 2010 if the party forms the next government in the United Kingdom. The proposal was put forward by Suella Braverman, Reform UK's newly appointed spokeswoman for education, skills, and equalities. Braverman stated that the current legislation has led to Britain being 'ripped apart by diversity, equality and inclusion policies' and that its repeal would pave the way for a country 'defined by meritocracy not tokenism'. She further articulated that the plan involves 'getting rid of the pernicious, divisive notion of protected characteristics'. In addition to repealing the Act, Reform UK also intends to abolish the equalities department and the role of the equalities minister.
Starmer Condemns Proposal as 'Shocking and Un-British'
Labour leader Keir Starmer has vehemently criticised Reform UK's plan, describing it as 'shocking' and 'un-British' or 'anti-British'. Speaking on the matter, Starmer warned that such a move would dismantle 'decades of protection' and could lead to overt discrimination, particularly against women. He emphasised that the Equality Act embodies 'basic values' of equal treatment for women and people of all races, asserting that 'tolerance, compassion, and diversity' are fundamental to British identity. Starmer also highlighted the historical efforts of the Labour Party in establishing equality legislation.
Understanding the Equality Act 2010
The Equality Act 2010 is a significant piece of legislation in the United Kingdom, consolidating and updating various anti-discrimination laws. Its primary objective is to safeguard individuals from discrimination, harassment, or victimisation across employment and public services. The Act identifies nine 'protected characteristics':
- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage and civil partnership
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Race
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
The legislation aims to simplify the legal framework, harmonise protections, and promote good relations among different groups. It also incorporates the Public Sector Equality Duty, requiring public authorities to consider equality in their functions.
Widespread Concerns and Reform UK's Defence
Beyond Labour, Reform UK's proposal has drawn significant condemnation from various organisations. Disabled activists and equalities charities have voiced their concerns, characterising the plan as 'appalling' and a 'significant step backwards' for discrimination protections. They argue that repealing the Act could effectively 'legalise discrimination' and undermine fundamental safeguards for LGBTQ+ individuals. The Trades Union Congress (TUC) also stated that Reform UK's position implies that discrimination 'should be legal'.
In response to the criticism, Robert Jenrick, Reform UK's new Treasury spokesman, countered by suggesting that the Equality Act had not benefited individuals and pointed to earlier legislation as sufficient for protecting against discrimination based on race and gender. Reform UK has indicated that it would introduce a 'Workplace Fairness Act' to maintain workplace protections and a separate act for other areas, though specific details remain to be fully outlined.
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