Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Protected Characteristics Caste

2020-09-23

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Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Bob Blackman Con
Harrow East
▸ Context
Bob Blackman references a written statement from July 23, 2018, HCWS898, discussing the removal of caste as a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010. He is concerned about the implementation of this proposal.
With reference to the written statement of 7/23/2018, HCWS898, when does she plan to bring forward proposals to remove caste as a protected characteristic from the Equality Act 2010?
Kemi Badenoch
I would like to make it clear that caste is not a protected characteristic in the Equality Act 2010. Case law has shown that a claim of caste discrimination may already qualify for protection under the race provisions in the Act. We therefore intend to repeal the uncommenced duty in the Act to make caste an explicit aspect of race discrimination as soon as practicable.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a specific timeline or proposals on when and how the removal will be implemented.
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Bob Blackman Con
Harrow East
▸ Context
Following previous consultations, Bob Blackman urges the government to act on removing caste as a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010.
I welcome my hon. Friend to her place to answer my regular questions on this particular topic. The fact is that we have had a large-scale consultation of the community. We have had a written ministerial statement making it clear that we are going to remove this protected characteristic from the Equality Act. So I urge her to bring forward, without delay, proposals to remove this unnecessary, ill-thought-out and divisive move in the Equality Act 2010.
Kemi Badenoch
I thank my hon. Friend for that question. We do agree with him. The Government completely oppose any discrimination because of a person's origins, including any perception of their caste, and we do remain committed to repealing the duty as soon as the opportunity arises.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific proposals or timeline for removing caste from protected characteristics.
Response accuracy