Bridget Phillipson has published the Government's response to its equality-law call for evidence, setting out the next stages of reform on pay, harassment and socio-economic disadvantage.
Ministers plan first to simplify the current equal-pay system and strengthen transparency and enforcement, before considering broader legal protections. A consultation on detailed proposals closed on 27 October.
A power to specify reasonable steps for preventing sexual harassment comes into force on 30 October. The Government also intends to develop best-practice guidance covering volunteers, interns and freelancers.
The new Class Unit is preparing to commence the socio-economic duty in England. That duty will require specified public bodies to consider how their decisions can reduce inequality linked to socio-economic disadvantage.
Ministers will not commence section 14 of the Equality Act, which deals with combined discrimination. They argue it would not materially increase protection and could create legal uncertainty, and will instead publish guidance and monitor case law.
Phillipson is the Minister for Women and Equalities, with responsibility for the equalities legislative programme and the Equality Act.
