The Equality and Human Rights Commission has published two new research reports, which look into issues surrounding caste in Britain. Both reports are from the Commission’s Caste in Britain project, which was undertaken at the request of the Government to help inform the introduction of an amendment to the Equality Act 2010, prohibiting caste discrimination, as required by the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013. Key findings from the report to help inform this process include: (i) while caste discrimination cannot be tolerated, the State should not intervene in cultural or social usages which are a matter of private practice and particular regard should be given to individuals’ rights under the European Convention on Human Rights; (ii) the definition of caste should be neither too precise nor too broad; and (iii) businesses and public authorities will need clear and practical information about how the prohibition of caste discrimination will affect them.

Content Note

The aim is to provide summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. In particular, where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out full details of all the facts, the legal arguments presented by the parties and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Click on the links provided to access full details. If no link is provided contact us for further information. 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, SM&B 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.