Equality Bill [Lords]

May I start by expressing my wholehearted support for the Bill? A single commission for equality and human rights will not only tackle discrimination against a broad range of groups in society but establish a framework for human rights for all our citizens, and should be commended. Laws combating discrimination are covered by 35 Acts of Parliament, 52 statutory instruments, 13 codes of practice, three codes of guidance and 16 European Union directives and recommendations. The commission will unify those measures. It will provide the leadership of a single body to fight discrimination and to seek to guarantee human rights for all the citizens of our country. The Bill will extend effective protection to people who daily face discrimination, often pervasive and demeaning, of the kind that most of us hear about frequently during our surgeries. Too often, our constituents, in seeking redress, are bombarded by a bewildering maze of regulations and laws. The Bill will not only simplify people’s understanding of the protection offered to them, but will support them in seeking effective remedies in the face of discrimination. Furthermore, individuals, companies large and small, authorities and charities will all benefit from a straightforward approach to equality. The Bill paves the way for such measures. The Bill is being greeted with particular enthusiasm in my constituency of Hove and Portslade. Members who have ventured a seaside trip recently will know just how much the city of Brighton and Hove has become a byword for the kind of progressive tolerance and welcome to individuality that lie at the heart of the Government’s vision for Britain, although sadly not on the Opposition Back Benches. I pay tribute to the many organisations that celebrate diversity and seek to tackle intolerance in my constituency. One such organisation, Pride in Brighton and Hove, hosts the largest celebration of diversity in Europe and works year-round to combat homophobia wherever it exists. Stonewall has also fought tirelessly to combat intolerance and to promote the benefits of a diverse society, contributing greatly to the national debate on equality and fighting effectively for inclusion of anti-discrimination legislation for the gay and lesbian community in the Bill.