MPs debate equality bill

Monday, 11 May 2009 12:00 AM

By politics.co.uk staff

The equality bill has received its second reading in parliament today, as the government prepares to respond to initial concerns.

The proposed legislation seeks to consolidate various equal pay and discrimination laws and regulations. It would force all firms employing over 250 people to set out their pay gap annually.

"If you're fair, there is nothing to fear but if you're not fair there will be no hiding place," equality minister Harriet Harman warned at the bill's publication.

Among the concerns raised since then is that the bill could target savings accounts aged at those over 50.

The Building Societies Association (BSA) said it feared 'silver savers' accounts could be outlawed on the grounds of discrimination.

Other measures proposed by the bill are allowing political parties to use all-women shortlists beyond 2015; banning age discrimination in the provision of goods, facilities or services; and creating a single equality duty for public bodies.

Tags:
• domestic policy
,
• equality