Government relaunches Equality Bill

The Government has resubmitted the Equality Bill, which proposes the introduction of a single equality rights body, the Commission for Equality and Human Rights (CEHR).

From October 2007, the CEHR will take over the roles of the Equal Opportunities Commission, the Commission for Racial Equality, and the Disability Rights Commission.

It will also take on responsibility for discrimination relating to age, religion and belief, and sexual orientation, as well as promoting human rights.

The Government hopes that creating a single body will allow easier access to information and support for individuals and employers.

Meg Munn, deputy minister for Women and Equality, said, 'The wide remit of the CEHR would give individuals and employers the support and advice they need to tackle inequality'.