New laws to boost protection against discrimination on the grounds of religion or belief were published today by the Government.
The new measures, in the Equality Bill, would meet the Government’s commitment to combat discrimination on the basis of a person’s religion or belief in the supply of goods, facilities, services and premises and also include measures which would make it unlawful for public authorities to discriminate or harass anyone in carrying out their functions.
Home Office Minister for Race Equality and Community Cohesion Fiona Mactaggart said:
“People in Britain have many different religious beliefs, some have none. But to benefit fully from this diversity we need to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and has equal access to opportunities and public services. That is the foundation for an integrated society in which people of different faiths can have similar chances in life.
“These measures would ensure that peoples of all faiths and ethnic backgrounds will receive equal protection against discrimination. I am pleased that these new provisions, making discrimination on the grounds of religion and belief unlawful, will also cover public functions as well as the provision of goods, facilities, services and premises. We consulted with key stakeholders on this issue and believe we have come up with proposals that will attract widespread support.”
The provisions contain exemptions for faith schools, activities to meet the special needs of religions and beliefs in education, welfare and training, and for religion and belief organisations and charities.