Overview

The Equality and Diversity (Reform) Bill aims to prohibit affirmative or positive action in public sector recruitment and appointments. It also repeals the Sex Discrimination (Election Candidates) Act 2002.

Description

This bill makes it unlawful for public authorities to engage in any form of affirmative or positive action during recruitment and appointments. "Affirmative or positive action" is defined as any action intended to benefit a particular group based on age, sex, sexual orientation, race, nationality, disability, religion, or socio-economic status. This includes setting and pursuing targets for representation from specific groups. The bill explicitly repeals the Sex Discrimination (Election Candidates) Act 2002, removing any legal provisions designed to address underrepresentation of women in political office. Any breach of the new law constitutes a breach of statutory duty and is actionable.

Government Spending

The bill is expected to reduce government spending by eliminating the need for programs and initiatives designed to promote diversity and inclusion through affirmative action. Precise figures are unavailable as the cost of such programs varies widely. The repeal of the Sex Discrimination (Election Candidates) Act 2002 will also likely result in cost savings by reducing any associated administrative or enforcement costs.

Groups Affected

• Public sector employers: Will be prohibited from using affirmative action in recruitment and appointments. This could impact their ability to meet diversity targets.
• Underrepresented groups: May experience reduced opportunities in public sector employment without affirmative action policies. This potentially affects groups based on age, sex, sexual orientation, race, nationality, disability, religion, or socio-economic status.
• Political parties: The repeal of the Sex Discrimination (Election Candidates) Act 2002 removes specific legal support for increasing female representation in parliament.

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