On 19 May 2011, the House of Lords debated the European Convention on Human Rights.
Parliamentary debate on the European Convention on Human Rights
EDF briefings on the Localism Bill
In May 2011, the Equality and Diversity Forum (EDF) published briefings on the Localism Bill for the House of Commons report stage and the House of Lords second reading.
Council of Europe: Opinion on national equality structures
On 21 March 2011, the Council of Europe published the Opinion of the Commissioner for human rights on national structures for promoting equality.
Introduction of new public sector Equality Duty and positive action measures
The public sector Equality Duty came into force as planned on 5 April 2011, followed by positive action measures on 6 April.
Equality Act 2010 codes of practice on employment, services and equal pay
The Equality and Human Rights Commission’s new codes of practice on employment, services and equal pay came into force on 6 April 2011.
End of the Default Retirement Age
The default retirement age (DRA) is to be phased out between 6 April and 30 September 2011.
Government social mobility strategy
On April 2011, the Government published ‘Opening Doors, Breaking Barriers: A Strategy for Social Mobility’.
Government national Child Poverty Strategy
On 5 April 2011, the Department for Education published a national strategy document ‘A New Approach to Child Poverty: Tackling the Causes of Disadvantage and Transforming Families’ Lives’.
Government strategy on LGB&T equality
‘Working for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Equality: Moving Forward’ was published in March 2011.
Commission on a UK Bill of Rights: announcement and responses
A Commission to investigate the case for a UK Bill of Rights was launched by the Deputy Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Justice in March 2011.