The Government has published the outcome of the independent review of the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) and in an accompanying ministerial statement has confirmed that it has accepted the findings. The PSED was introduced through the Equality Act 2010 to ensure that public bodies take account of equality when carrying out their day-to-day work – in shaping policy, in delivering services and in relation to their own employees. The review was established to examine whether the PSED is operating as intended. The review has not considered repeal of the PSED, but the Government agree with its conclusion that a full evaluation should be undertaken in 2016 when the Duty will have been in force for five years. The review has however identified a number of issues associated with the implementation of the PSED and makes recommendations for the Equality & Human Rights Commission (EHRC), for contractors, for public bodies and for Government, which the Government would like to see implemented, in particular to reduce procurement gold plating by the public sector.
This provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out all of the facts, the legal arguments presented and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, we cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.
