Equality Act 2010

Part 1 E+W+S Socio-economic inequalities

1 Public sector duty regarding socio-economic inequalities E+W+S

(1) An authority to which this section applies must, when making decisions of a strategic nature about how to exercise its functions, have due regard to the desirability of exercising them in a way that is designed to reduce the inequalities of outcome which result from socio-economic disadvantage.

(2) In deciding how to fulfil a duty to which it is subject under subsection (1), an authority must take into account any guidance issued [F1 in accordance with subsection (2A)].

[F2 (2A) The guidance to be taken into account under subsection (2) is—

(a) in the case of a duty imposed on an authority in relation to devolved Scottish functions, guidance issued by the Scottish Ministers;

[F3 (aa) in the case of a duty imposed on an authority in relation to devolved Welsh functions, guidance issued by the Welsh Ministers;]

(b) in any other case, guidance issued by a Minister of the Crown.]

[F4 (3) The authorities to which this section applies are—

(a) a Minister of the Crown;

(b) a government department other than the Security Service, the Secret Intelligence Service or the Government Communications Head-quarters;

[F5 (ba) a corporate joint committee established by regulations made under Part 5 of the Local Government and Elections (Wales) Act 2021;]

(c) a county council or district council in England;

(d) the Greater London Authority;

(e) a London borough council;

(f) the Common Council of the City of London in its capacity as a local authority;

(g) the Council of the Isles of Scilly;

F6 (h) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F7 (i) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F8 (j) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(k) a [F9 police and crime commissioner] established for an area in England.]

[F4 (3) The authorities to which this section applies are—

(a) the Scottish Ministers;

(b) Food Standards Scotland;

(c) Keeper of the Registers of Scotland;

(d) National Records of Scotland;

(e) Revenue Scotland;

(f) Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service;

(g) a council constituted under section 2 of the Local Government etc. (Scotland) Act 1994;

(h) an integration joint board established under section 9(2) of the Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Scotland) Act 2014;

(i) a Health Board constituted under section 2(1)(a) of the National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1978;

(j) a Special Health Board constituted under section 2(1)(b) of that Act;

(k) Scottish Police Authority;

(l) Highlands and Islands Enterprise;

(m) Scottish Enterprise.]

[F10 (n) Scottish National Investment Bank p.l.c.;

(o) South of Scotland Enterprise.]

[F11 (3A) This section also applies to the following authorities—

(a) the Welsh Ministers;

(b) a county council or county borough council in Wales;

(c) a Local Health Board established under section 11 of the National Health Service (Wales) Act 2006;

(d) an NHS Trust established under section 18 of the National Health Service (Wales) Act 2006;

(e) a Special Health Authority established under section 22 of the National Health Service (Wales) Act 2006 other than a cross-border Special Health Authority (within the meaning of section 8A(5) of the National Health Service (Wales) Act 2006);

(f) a fire and rescue authority constituted by a scheme under section 2 of the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004, or a scheme to which section 4 of that Act applies, for an area in Wales;

(g) a National Park authority established by an order under section 63 of the Environment Act 1995 for an area in Wales;

(h) the Welsh Revenue Authority or Awdurdod Cyllid Cymru.]

F12 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F13 (5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(6) The reference to inequalities in subsection (1) does not include any inequalities experienced by a person as a result of being a person subject to immigration control within the meaning given by section 115(9) of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.

Textual Amendments

F1 Words in s. 1(2) substituted (23.5.2016) by Scotland Act 2016 (c. 11), ss. 38(3), 72(7)

F2 S. 1(2A) inserted (23.5.2016) by Scotland Act 2016 (c. 11), ss. 38(4), 72(7)

F3 S. 1(2A)(aa) inserted (1.4.2018) by Wales Act 2017 (c. 4), ss. 45(2), 71(4) (with Sch. 7 paras. 1, 6); S.I. 2017/1179, reg. 3(i)

F4 S. 1(3) substituted (S.) (1.4.2018) by The Equality Act 2010 (Authorities subject to the Socio-economic Inequality Duty) (Scotland) Regulations 2018 (S.S.I. 2018/101), regs. 1, 2(2)

F5 S. 1(3A)(ba) inserted (3.12.2021) by The Equality Act 2010 (Authorities subject to a duty regarding Socio-economic Inequalities) (No. 2) (Wales) Regulations 2021 (S.I. 2021/1351), regs. 1(2), 2

F6 S. 1(3)(h) omitted (E.W.) (1.4.2013) by virtue of Health and Social Care Act 2012 (c. 7), s. 55(2), Sch. 5 para. 181(a); S.I. 2013/160, art. 2(2) (with arts. 7-9)

F7 S. 1(3)(i) omitted (1.4.2013) by virtue of Health and Social Care Act 2012 (c. 7), s. 55(2), Sch. 5 para. 181(b); S.I. 2013/160, art. 2(2) (with arts. 7-9)

F8 S. 1(3)(j) repealed (1.7.2012 at 0.02 a.m.) by Public Bodies Act 2011 (c. 24), s. 30(3), Sch. 6; S.I. 2012/1662, art. 2(2)(b)

F9 Words in s. 1(3)(k) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 99, Sch. 16 para. 381; S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)(i)

F10 S. 1(3)(n)(o) inserted (26.11.2020) by The Scottish National Investment Bank p.l.c. and South of Scotland Enterprise (Miscellaneous Listings) Regulations 2020 (S.S.I. 2020/403), regs. 1, 2(2)

F11 S. 1(3A) inserted (E.W.) (30.3.2021) by The Equality Act 2010 (Authorities subject to a duty regarding Socio-economic Inequalities) (Wales) Regulations 2021 (S.I. 2021/295), regs. 1, 2

F12 S. 1(4) omitted (26.5.2015) by virtue of Deregulation Act 2015 (c. 20), ss. 100(2)(g), 115(3)(k)

F13 S. 1(5) omitted (26.5.2015) by virtue of Deregulation Act 2015 (c. 20), ss. 100(2)(g), 115(3)(k)

Commencement Information

I1 S. 1 in force at 31.3.2021 for specified purposes for W. by S.I. 2021/298, art. 2(a)

I2 S. 1(1)-(3)(6) in force at 1.4.2018 for S. by S.S.I. 2017/403, art. 2(1)(a)(2) [Editorial note: art. 2(2) of the commencement order provides that, for the avoidance of doubt, s. 1(3) is commenced as originally enacted]

2 Power to amend section 1 E+W+S

(1) A Minister of the Crown may by regulations amend section 1 so as to—

(a) add a public authority to the authorities that are subject to the duty under subsection (1) of that section;

(b) remove an authority from those that are subject to the duty;

(c) make the duty apply, in the case of a particular authority, only in relation to certain functions that it has;

(d) in the case of an authority to which the application of the duty is already restricted to certain functions, remove or alter the restriction.

(2) In subsection (1) “public authority” means an authority that has functions of a public nature.

(3) Provision made under subsection (1) may not impose a duty on an authority in relation to any devolved Scottish functions or devolved Welsh functions.

(4) The Scottish Ministers or the Welsh Ministers may by regulations amend section 1 so as to—

(a) add a relevant authority to the authorities that are subject to the duty under subsection (1) of that section;

(b) remove a relevant authority from those that are subject to the duty;

(c) make the duty apply, in the case of a particular relevant authority, only in relation to certain functions that it has;

(d) in the case of a relevant authority to which the application of the duty is already restricted to certain functions, remove or alter the restriction.

(5) For the purposes of the power conferred by subsection (4) on the Scottish Ministers, “relevant authority” means an authority whose functions—

(a) are exercisable only in or as regards Scotland,

(b) are wholly or mainly devolved Scottish functions, and

(c) correspond or are similar to those of an authority for the time being specified in section 1(3).

(6) For the purposes of the power conferred by subsection (4) on the Welsh Ministers, “relevant authority” means [F14 a devolved Welsh authority (within the meaning given by section 157A of the Government of Wales Act 2006) whose functions correspond] or are similar to those of an authority for the time being specified in subsection (3) of section 1 or referred to in subsection (4) of that section.

F15 (7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(8) Regulations under this section may make any amendments of section 1 that appear to the Minister or Ministers to be necessary or expedient in consequence of provision made under subsection (1) or (as the case may be) subsection (4).

F16 (9) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F17 (10) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(11) For the purposes of this [F18 Part]—

(a) a function is a devolved Scottish function if it is exercisable in or as regards Scotland and it does not relate to reserved matters (within the meaning of the Scotland Act 1998);

F19 (b) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F14 Words in s. 2(6) substituted (1.4.2018) by Wales Act 2017 (c. 4), s. 71(4), Sch. 6 para. 83(2) (with Sch. 7 paras. 1, 6); S.I. 2017/1179, reg. 3(r)

F15 S. 2(7) omitted (1.4.2018) by virtue of Wales Act 2017 (c. 4), ss. 45(3), 71(4) (with Sch. 7 paras. 1, 6); S.I. 2017/1179, reg. 3(i)

F16 S. 2(9) omitted (1.4.2018) by virtue of Wales Act 2017 (c. 4), ss. 45(3), 71(4) (with Sch. 7 paras. 1, 6); S.I. 2017/1179, reg. 3(i)

F17 S. 2(10) omitted (1.4.2018) by virtue of Wales Act 2017 (c. 4), ss. 45(3), 71(4) (with Sch. 7 paras. 1, 6); S.I. 2017/1179, reg. 3(i)

F18 Word in s. 2(11) substituted (23.5.2016) by Scotland Act 2016 (c. 11), ss. 38(8), 72(7)

F19 S. 2(11)(b) omitted (1.4.2018) by virtue of Wales Act 2017 (c. 4), s. 71(4), Sch. 6 para. 83(3) (with Sch. 7 paras. 1, 6); S.I. 2017/1179, reg. 3(r)

Commencement Information

I3 S. 2 in force at 1.4.2018 for S. by S.S.I. 2017/403, art. 2(1)(b)

I4 S. 2 in force at 22.11.2019 for specified purposes for W. by S.I. 2019/1469, art. 2

3 Enforcement E+W+S

A failure in respect of a performance of a duty under section 1 does not confer a cause of action at private law.

Commencement Information

I5 S. 3 in force at 1.4.2018 for S. by S.S.I. 2017/403, art. 2(1)(c)

I6 S. 3 in force at 31.3.2021 for specified purposes for W. by S.I. 2021/298, art. 2(b)

Part 2 E+W+S Equality: key concepts

Chapter 1 E+W+S Protected characteristics

4 The protected characteristics E+W+S

The following characteristics are protected characteristics—

• age;

• disability;

• gender reassignment;

• marriage and civil partnership;

• pregnancy and maternity;

• race;

• religion or belief;

• sex;

• sexual orientation.

5 Age E+W+S

(1) In relation to the protected characteristic of age—

(a) a reference to a person who has a particular protected characteristic is a reference to a person of a particular age group;

(b) a reference to persons who share a protected characteristic is a reference to persons of the same age group.

(2) A reference to an age group is a reference to a group of persons defined by reference to age, whether by reference to a particular age or to a range of ages.

6 Disability E+W+S

(1) A person (P) has a disability if—

(a) P has a physical or mental impairment, and

(b) the impairment has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on P's ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.

(2) A reference to a disabled person is a reference to a person who has a disability.

(3) In relation to the protected characteristic of disability—

(a) a reference to a person who has a particular protected characteristic is a reference to a person who has a particular disability;

(b) a reference to persons who share a protected characteristic is a reference to persons who have the same disability.

(4) This Act (except Part 12 and section 190) applies in relation to a person who has had a disability as it applies in relation to a person who has the disability; accordingly (except in that Part and that section)—

(a) a reference (however expressed) to a person who has a disability includes a reference to a person who has had the disability, and

(b) a reference (however expressed) to a person who does not have a disability includes a reference to a person who has not had the disability.

(5) A Minister of the Crown may issue guidance about matters to be taken into account in deciding any question for the purposes of subsection (1).

(6) Schedule 1 (disability: supplementary provision) has effect.

Commencement Information

I7 S. 6 wholly in force; s. 6 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 6(5) in force for certain purposes at 6.7.2010 by S.I. 2010/1736, art. 2, Sch.; s. 6(6) in force for certain purposes at 4.8.2010 by S.I. 2010/1966, art. 2; s. 6 in force at 1.10.2010 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(2)(b) (with art. 15)

7 Gender reassignment E+W+S

(1) A person has the protected characteristic of gender reassignment if the person is proposing to undergo, is undergoing or has undergone a process (or part of a process) for the purpose of reassigning the person's sex by changing physiological or other attributes of sex.

(2) A reference to a transsexual person is a reference to a person who has the protected characteristic of gender reassignment.

(3) In relation to the protected characteristic of gender reassignment—

(a) a reference to a person who has a particular protected characteristic is a reference to a transsexual person;

(b) a reference to persons who share a protected characteristic is a reference to transsexual persons.

8 Marriage and civil partnership E+W+S

(1) A person has the protected characteristic of marriage and civil partnership if the person is married or is a civil partner.

(2) In relation to the protected characteristic of marriage and civil partnership—

(a) a reference to a person who has a particular protected characteristic is a reference to a person who is married or is a civil partner;

(b) a reference to persons who share a protected characteristic is a reference to persons who are married or are civil partners.

9 Race E+W+S

(1) Race includes—

(a) colour;

(b) nationality;

(c) ethnic or national origins.

(2) In relation to the protected characteristic of race—

(a) a reference to a person who has a particular protected characteristic is a reference to a person of a particular racial group;

(b) a reference to persons who share a protected characteristic is a reference to persons of the same racial group.

(3) A racial group is a group of persons defined by reference to race; and a reference to a person's racial group is a reference to a racial group into which the person falls.

(4) The fact that a racial group comprises two or more distinct racial groups does not prevent it from constituting a particular racial group.

(5) A Minister of the Crown F20 ...—

(a) [F21 must by order] amend this section so as to provide for caste to be an aspect of race;

(b) [F22 may by order] amend this Act so as to provide for an exception to a provision of this Act to apply, or not to apply, to caste or to apply, or not to apply, to caste in specified circumstances.

(6) The power under section 207(4)(b), in its application to subsection (5), includes power to amend this Act.

Textual Amendments

F20 Words in s. 9(5) omitted (25.6.2013) by virtue of Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), ss. 97(2), 103(2)

F21 Words in s. 9(5)(a) inserted (25.4.2013 for specified purposes) by Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), ss. 97(3), 103(1)(i)(2)

F22 Words in s. 9(5)(b) inserted (25.4.2013 for specified purposes) by Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), ss. 97(4), 103(1)(i)(2)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 S. 9(5) power to repeal or amend conferred (25.4.2013 for specified purposes) by Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), ss. 97(7)-(10), 103(1)(i)(2)

10 Religion or belief E+W+S

(1) Religion means any religion and a reference to religion includes a reference to a lack of religion.

(2) Belief means any religious or philosophical belief and a reference to belief includes a reference to a lack of belief.

(3) In relation to the protected characteristic of religion or belief—

(a) a reference to a person who has a particular protected characteristic is a reference to a person of a particular religion or belief;

(b) a reference to persons who share a protected characteristic is a reference to persons who are of the same religion or belief.

11 Sex E+W+S

In relation to the protected characteristic of sex—

(a) a reference to a person who has a particular protected characteristic is a reference to a man or to a woman;

(b) a reference to persons who share a protected characteristic is a reference to persons of the same sex.

12 Sexual orientation E+W+S

(1) Sexual orientation means a person's sexual orientation towards—

(a) persons of the same sex,

(b) persons of the opposite sex, or

(c) persons of either sex.

(2) In relation to the protected characteristic of sexual orientation—

(a) a reference to a person who has a particular protected characteristic is a reference to a person who is of a particular sexual orientation;

(b) a reference to persons who share a protected characteristic is a reference to persons who are of the same sexual orientation.

Chapter 2 E+W+S Prohibited conduct

Discrimination E+W+S

13 Direct discrimination E+W+S

(1) A person (A) discriminates against another (B) if, because of a protected characteristic, A treats B less favourably than A treats or would treat others.

(2) If the protected characteristic is age, A does not discriminate against B if A can show A's treatment of B to be a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.

(3) If the protected characteristic is disability, and B is not a disabled person, A does not discriminate against B only because A treats or would treat disabled persons more favourably than A treats B.

(4) If the protected characteristic is marriage and civil partnership, this section applies to a contravention of Part 5 (work) only if the treatment is because it is B who is married or a civil partner.

(5) If the protected characteristic is race, less favourable treatment includes segregating B from others.

(6) If the protected characteristic is sex—

(a) less favourable treatment of a woman includes less favourable treatment of her because she is breast-feeding;

(b) in a case where B is a man, no account is to be taken of special treatment afforded to a woman in connection with pregnancy [F23 , childbirth or maternity].

F24 (7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(8) This section is subject to sections 17(6) and 18(7).

Textual Amendments

F23 Words in s. 13(6)(b) substituted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 2(2)(a)

F24 S. 13(7) omitted (1.1.2024) by virtue of The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 2(2)(b)

Prospective

14 Combined discrimination: dual characteristics E+W+S

(1) A person (A) discriminates against another (B) if, because of a combination of two relevant protected characteristics, A treats B less favourably than A treats or would treat a person who does not share either of those characteristics.

(2) The relevant protected characteristics are—

(a) age;

(b) disability;

(c) gender reassignment;

(d) race

(e) religion or belief;

(f) sex;

(g) sexual orientation.

(3) For the purposes of establishing a contravention of this Act by virtue of subsection (1), B need not show that A's treatment of B is direct discrimination because of each of the characteristics in the combination (taken separately).

(4) But B cannot establish a contravention of this Act by virtue of subsection (1) if, in reliance on another provision of this Act or any other enactment, A shows that A's treatment of B is not direct discrimination because of either or both of the characteristics in the combination.

(5) Subsection (1) does not apply to a combination of characteristics that includes disability in circumstances where, if a claim of direct discrimination because of disability were to be brought, it would come within section 116 (special educational needs).

(6) A Minister of the Crown may by order amend this section so as to—

(a) make further provision about circumstances in which B can, or in which B cannot, establish a contravention of this Act by virtue of subsection (1);

(b) specify other circumstances in which subsection (1) does not apply.

(7) The references to direct discrimination are to a contravention of this Act by virtue of section 13.

15 Discrimination arising from disability E+W+S

(1) A person (A) discriminates against a disabled person (B) if—

(a) A treats B unfavourably because of something arising in consequence of B's disability, and

(b) A cannot show that the treatment is a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.

(2) Subsection (1) does not apply if A shows that A did not know, and could not reasonably have been expected to know, that B had the disability.

16 Gender reassignment discrimination: cases of absence from work E+W+S

(1) This section has effect for the purposes of the application of Part 5 (work) to the protected characteristic of gender reassignment.

(2) A person (A) discriminates against a transsexual person (B) if, in relation to an absence of B's that is because of gender reassignment, A treats B less favourably than A would treat B if—

(a) B's absence was because of sickness or injury, or

(b) B's absence was for some other reason and it is not reasonable for B to be treated less favourably.

(3) A person's absence is because of gender reassignment if it is because the person is proposing to undergo, is undergoing or has undergone the process (or part of the process) mentioned in section 7(1).

17 Pregnancy and maternity discrimination: non-work cases E+W+S

(1) This section has effect for the purposes of the application to the protected characteristic of pregnancy and maternity of—

(a) Part 3 (services and public functions);

(b) Part 4 (premises);

(c) Part 6 (education);

(d) Part 7 (associations).

(2) A person (A) discriminates against a woman if A treats her unfavourably because of a pregnancy of hers.

(3) A person (A) discriminates against a woman if, in the period of 26 weeks beginning with the day on which she gives birth, A treats her unfavourably because she has given birth.

(4) The reference in subsection (3) to treating a woman unfavourably because she has given birth includes, in particular, a reference to treating her unfavourably because she is breast-feeding.

(5) For the purposes of this section, the day on which a woman gives birth is the day on which—

(a) she gives birth to a living child, or

(b) she gives birth to a dead child (more than 24 weeks of the pregnancy having passed).

(6) Section 13, so far as relating to sex discrimination, does not apply to anything done in relation to a woman in so far as—

(a) it is for the reason mentioned in subsection (2), or

(b) it is in the period, and for the reason, mentioned in subsection (3).

18 Pregnancy and maternity discrimination: work cases E+W+S

(1) This section has effect for the purposes of the application of Part 5 (work) to the protected characteristic of pregnancy and maternity.

(2) A person (A) discriminates against a woman if, in [F25 or after] the protected period in relation to a pregnancy of hers, A treats her unfavourably —

(a) because of the pregnancy, or

(b) because of illness suffered by her [F26 in that protected period as a result of the pregnancy].

(3) A person (A) discriminates against a woman if A treats her unfavourably because she is on compulsory maternity leave [F27 or on equivalent compulsory maternity leave].

(4) A person (A) discriminates against a woman if A treats her unfavourably because she is exercising or seeking to exercise, or has exercised or sought to exercise, the right to ordinary or additional maternity leave [F28 or a right to equivalent maternity leave].

F29 (5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(6) The protected period, in relation to a woman's pregnancy, begins when the pregnancy begins, and ends—

(a) if she has the right to ordinary and additional maternity leave, at the end of the additional maternity leave period or (if earlier) when she returns to work after the pregnancy;

[F30 (aa) if she does not have that right, but has a right to equivalent maternity leave, at the end of that leave period, or (if earlier) when she returns to work after the pregnancy;]

(b) if she does not have [F31 a right as described in paragraph (a) or (aa)], at the end of the period of 2 weeks beginning with the end of the pregnancy.

[F32 (6A) For the purposes of this section—

• “equivalent compulsory maternity leave” means a period of leave—

  (a)

  which is of a substantially similar nature (regardless of its length) to compulsory maternity leave, and

  (b)

  which is provided for under a statutory or contractual scheme;

• “equivalent maternity leave” means a period of leave—

  (a)

  which is of a substantially similar nature (regardless of its length) to ordinary or additional maternity leave or both, and

  (b)

  which is provided for under a statutory or contractual scheme.]

(7) Section 13, so far as relating to sex discrimination, does not apply to treatment of a woman in so far as—

(a) it is in [F33 or after] the protected period in relation to her and is for a reason mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) of subsection (2), or

(b) it is for a reason mentioned in subsection (3) or (4).

Textual Amendments

F25 Words in s. 18(2) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 2(4)(a) (with reg. 2(11))

F26 Words in s. 18(2)(b) substituted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 2(4)(b) (with reg. 2(11))

F27 Words in s. 18(3) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 2(5) (with reg. 2(11))

F28 Words in s. 18(4) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 2(6) (with reg. 2(11))

F29 S. 18(5) omitted (1.1.2024) by virtue of The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 2(7) (with reg. 2(11))

F30 S. 18(6)(aa) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 2(8)(a) (with reg. 2(11))

F31 Words in s. 18(6)(b) substituted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 2(8)(b) (with reg. 2(11))

F32 S. 18(6A) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 2(9) (with reg. 2(11))

F33 Words in s. 18(7)(a) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 2(10) (with reg. 2(11))

19 Indirect discrimination E+W+S

(1) A person (A) discriminates against another (B) if A applies to B a provision, criterion or practice which is discriminatory in relation to a relevant protected characteristic of B's.

(2) For the purposes of subsection (1), a provision, criterion or practice is discriminatory in relation to a relevant protected characteristic of B's if—

(a) A applies, or would apply, it to persons with whom B does not share the characteristic,

(b) it puts, or would put, persons with whom B shares the characteristic at a particular disadvantage when compared with persons with whom B does not share it,

(c) it puts, or would put, B at that disadvantage, and

(d) A cannot show it to be a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.

(3) The relevant protected characteristics are—

• age;

• disability;

• gender reassignment;

• marriage and civil partnership;

• race;

• religion or belief;

• sex;

• sexual orientation.

[F34 19A Indirect discrimination: same disadvantage E+W+S

(1) A person (A) discriminates against another (B) if—

(a) A applies to B a provision, criterion or practice,

(b) A also applies, or would apply, the provision, criterion or practice to—

(i) persons who share a relevant protected characteristic, and

(ii) persons who do not share that relevant protected characteristic,

(c) B does not share that relevant protected characteristic,

(d) the provision, criterion or practice puts, or would put, persons with the relevant protected characteristic at a particular disadvantage when compared with persons who do not share the relevant protected characteristic,

(e) the provision, criterion or practice puts, or would put, B at substantively the same disadvantage as persons who do share the relevant protected characteristic, and

(f) A cannot show that the provision, criterion or practice is a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.

(2) The relevant protected characteristics for the purposes of this section are—

• age;

• disability;

• gender reassignment;

• marriage and civil partnership;

• race;

• religion or belief;

• sex;

• sexual orientation.]

Textual Amendments

F34 S. 19A inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 3(2)

Adjustments for disabled persons E+W+S

20 Duty to make adjustments E+W+S

(1) Where this Act imposes a duty to make reasonable adjustments on a person, this section, sections 21 and 22 and the applicable Schedule apply; and for those purposes, a person on whom the duty is imposed is referred to as A.

(2) The duty comprises the following three requirements.

(3) The first requirement is a requirement, where a provision, criterion or practice of A's puts a disabled person at a substantial disadvantage in relation to a relevant matter in comparison with persons who are not disabled, to take such steps as it is reasonable to have to take to avoid the disadvantage.

(4) The second requirement is a requirement, where a physical feature puts a disabled person at a substantial disadvantage in relation to a relevant matter in comparison with persons who are not disabled, to take such steps as it is reasonable to have to take to avoid the disadvantage.

(5) The third requirement is a requirement, where a disabled person would, but for the provision of an auxiliary aid, be put at a substantial disadvantage in relation to a relevant matter in comparison with persons who are not disabled, to take such steps as it is reasonable to have to take to provide the auxiliary aid.

(6) Where the first or third requirement relates to the provision of information, the steps which it is reasonable for A to have to take include steps for ensuring that in the circumstances concerned the information is provided in an accessible format.

(7) A person (A) who is subject to a duty to make reasonable adjustments is not (subject to express provision to the contrary) entitled to require a disabled person, in relation to whom A is required to comply with the duty, to pay to any extent A's costs of complying with the duty.

(8) A reference in section 21 or 22 or an applicable Schedule to the first, second or third requirement is to be construed in accordance with this section.

(9) In relation to the second requirement, a reference in this section or an applicable Schedule to avoiding a substantial disadvantage includes a reference to—

(a) removing the physical feature in question,

(b) altering it, or

(c) providing a reasonable means of avoiding it.

(10) A reference in this section, section 21 or 22 or an applicable Schedule (apart from paragraphs 2 to 4 of Schedule 4) to a physical feature is a reference to—

(a) a feature arising from the design or construction of a building,

(b) a feature of an approach to, exit from or access to a building,

(c) a fixture or fitting, or furniture, furnishings, materials, equipment or other chattels, in or on premises, or

(d) any other physical element or quality.

(11) A reference in this section, section 21 or 22 or an applicable Schedule to an auxiliary aid includes a reference to an auxiliary service.

(12) A reference in this section or an applicable Schedule to chattels is to be read, in relation to Scotland, as a reference to moveable property.

(13) The applicable Schedule is, in relation to the Part of this Act specified in the first column of the Table, the Schedule specified in the second column.

Part of this Act	Applicable Schedule
Part 3 (services and public functions)	Schedule 2
Part 4 (premises)	Schedule 4
Part 5 (work)	Schedule 8
Part 6 (education)	Schedule 13
Part 7 (associations)	Schedule 15
Each of the Parts mentioned above	Schedule 21

21 Failure to comply with duty E+W+S

(1) A failure to comply with the first, second or third requirement is a failure to comply with a duty to make reasonable adjustments.

(2) A discriminates against a disabled person if A fails to comply with that duty in relation to that person.

(3) A provision of an applicable Schedule which imposes a duty to comply with the first, second or third requirement applies only for the purpose of establishing whether A has contravened this Act by virtue of subsection (2); a failure to comply is, accordingly, not actionable by virtue of another provision of this Act or otherwise.

22 Regulations E+W+S

(1) Regulations may prescribe—

(a) matters to be taken into account in deciding whether it is reasonable for A to take a step for the purposes of a prescribed provision of an applicable Schedule;

(b) descriptions of persons to whom the first, second or third requirement does not apply.

(2) Regulations may make provision as to—

(a) circumstances in which it is, or in which it is not, reasonable for a person of a prescribed description to have to take steps of a prescribed description;

(b) what is, or what is not, a provision, criterion or practice;

(c) things which are, or which are not, to be treated as physical features;

(d) things which are, or which are not, to be treated as alterations of physical features;

(e) things which are, or which are not, to be treated as auxiliary aids.

(3) Provision made by virtue of this section may amend an applicable Schedule.

Commencement Information

I8 S. 22 wholly in force; s. 22 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 22 in force for certain purposes at 6.7.2010 by S.I. 2010/1736, art. 2, Sch.; s. 22 in force at 1.10.2010 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(2)(e) (with art. 15)

Discrimination: supplementary E+W+S

23 Comparison by reference to circumstances E+W+S

(1) On a comparison of cases for the purposes of section 13, 14, [F35 19 or 19A] there must be no material difference between the circumstances relating to each case.

(2) The circumstances relating to a case include a person's abilities if—

(a) on a comparison for the purposes of section 13, the protected characteristic is disability;

(b) on a comparison for the purposes of section 14, one of the protected characteristics in the combination is disability.

(3) If the protected characteristic is sexual orientation, the fact that one person (whether or not the person referred to as B) is a civil partner while another is married F36 ... is not a material difference between the circumstances relating to each case.

[F37 (4) If the protected characteristic is sexual orientation, the fact that one person (whether or not the person referred to as B) is married to[F38 , or the civil partner of,] a person of the same sex while another is married to[F38 , or the civil partner of,] a person of the opposite sex is not a material difference between the circumstances relating to each case.]

Textual Amendments

F35 Words in s. 23(1) substituted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 3(3)

F36 Words in s. 23(3) omitted (2.12.2019) by virtue of The Civil Partnership (Opposite-sex Couples) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/1458), reg. 1(2), Sch. 3 para. 32(2)(a)

F37 S. 23(4) inserted (13.3.2014) by Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 (c. 30), s. 21(3), Sch. 7 para. 43(3); S.I. 2014/93, art. 3(k)(iv)

F38 Words in s. 23(4) inserted (2.12.2019) by The Civil Partnership (Opposite-sex Couples) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/1458), reg. 1(2), Sch. 3 para. 32(2)(b)

24 Irrelevance of alleged discriminator's characteristics E+W+S

(1) For the purpose of establishing a contravention of this Act by virtue of section 13(1), it does not matter whether A has the protected characteristic.

(2) For the purpose of establishing a contravention of this Act by virtue of section 14(1), it does not matter—

(a) whether A has one of the protected characteristics in the combination;

(b) whether A has both.

25 References to particular strands of discrimination E+W+S

(1) Age discrimination is—

(a) discrimination within section 13 because of age;

(b) discrimination within section 19 [F39 or 19A] where the relevant protected characteristic is age.

(2) Disability discrimination is—

(a) discrimination within section 13 because of disability;

(b) discrimination within section 15;

(c) discrimination within section 19 [F40 or 19A] where the relevant protected characteristic is disability;

(d) discrimination within section 21.

(3) Gender reassignment discrimination is—

(a) discrimination within section 13 because of gender reassignment;

(b) discrimination within section 16;

(c) discrimination within section 19 [F41 or 19A] where the relevant protected characteristic is gender reassignment.

(4) Marriage and civil partnership discrimination is—

(a) discrimination within section 13 because of marriage and civil partnership;

(b) discrimination within section 19 [F42 or 19A] where the relevant protected characteristic is marriage and civil partnership.

(5) Pregnancy and maternity discrimination is discrimination within section 17 or 18.

(6) Race discrimination is—

(a) discrimination within section 13 because of race;

(b) discrimination within section 19 [F43 or 19A] where the relevant protected characteristic is race.

(7) Religious or belief-related discrimination is—

(a) discrimination within section 13 because of religion or belief;

(b) discrimination within section 19 [F44 or 19A] where the relevant protected characteristic is religion or belief.

(8) Sex discrimination is—

(a) discrimination within section 13 because of sex;

(b) discrimination within section 19 [F45 or 19A] where the relevant protected characteristic is sex.

(9) Sexual orientation discrimination is—

(a) discrimination within section 13 because of sexual orientation;

(b) discrimination within section 19 [F46 or 19A] where the relevant protected characteristic is sexual orientation.

Textual Amendments

F39 Words in s. 25(1)(b) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 3(4)(a)

F40 Words in s. 25(2)(c) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 3(4)(b)

F41 Words in s. 25(3)(c) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 3(4)(c)

F42 Words in s. 25(4)(b) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 3(4)(d)

F43 Words in s. 25(6)(b) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 3(4)(e)

F44 Words in s. 25(7)(b) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 3(4)(f)

F45 Words in s. 25(8)(b) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 3(4)(g)

F46 Words in s. 25(9)(b) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 3(4)(h)

Other prohibited conduct E+W+S

26 Harassment E+W+S

(1) A person (A) harasses another (B) if—

(a) A engages in unwanted conduct related to a relevant protected characteristic, and

(b) the conduct has the purpose or effect of—

(i) violating B's dignity, or

(ii) creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for B.

(2) A also harasses B if—

(a) A engages in unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, and

(b) the conduct has the purpose or effect referred to in subsection (1)(b).

(3) A also harasses B if—

(a) A or another person engages in unwanted conduct of a sexual nature or that is related to gender reassignment or sex,

(b) the conduct has the purpose or effect referred to in subsection (1)(b), and

(c) because of B's rejection of or submission to the conduct, A treats B less favourably than A would treat B if B had not rejected or submitted to the conduct.

(4) In deciding whether conduct has the effect referred to in subsection (1)(b), each of the following must be taken into account—

(a) the perception of B;

(b) the other circumstances of the case;

(c) whether it is reasonable for the conduct to have that effect.

(5) The relevant protected characteristics are—

• age;

• disability;

• gender reassignment;

• race;

• religion or belief;

• sex;

• sexual orientation.

27 Victimisation E+W+S

(1) A person (A) victimises another person (B) if A subjects B to a detriment because—

(a) B does a protected act, or

(b) A believes that B has done, or may do, a protected act.

(2) Each of the following is a protected act—

(a) bringing proceedings under this Act;

(b) giving evidence or information in connection with proceedings under this Act;

(c) doing any other thing for the purposes of or in connection with this Act;

(d) making an allegation (whether or not express) that A or another person has contravened this Act.

(3) Giving false evidence or information, or making a false allegation, is not a protected act if the evidence or information is given, or the allegation is made, in bad faith.

(4) This section applies only where the person subjected to a detriment is an individual.

(5) The reference to contravening this Act includes a reference to committing a breach of an equality clause or rule.

Commencement Information

I9 S. 27 wholly in force; s. 27 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 27 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(2)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 8)

Part 3 E+W+S Services and public functions

Preliminary E+W+S

28 Application of this Part E+W+S

(1) This Part does not apply to the protected characteristic of—

(a) age, so far as relating to persons who have not attained the age of 18;

(b) marriage and civil partnership.

(2) This Part does not apply to discrimination, harassment or victimisation—

(a) that is prohibited by Part 4 (premises), 5 (work) or 6 (education), or

(b) that would be so prohibited but for an express exception.

(3) This Part does not apply to—

(a) a breach of an equality clause or rule;

(b) anything that would be a breach of an equality clause or rule but for section 69 or Part 2 of Schedule 7;

(c) a breach of a non-discrimination rule.

Commencement Information

I10 S. 28 wholly in force at 1.10.2012; s. 28 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 28 in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(3); s. 28 in force so far as not already in force at 1.10.2012 by S.I. 2012/1569, art. 3(a)

Provision of services, etc. E+W+S

29 Provision of services, etc. E+W+S

(1) A person (a “service-provider”) concerned with the provision of a service to the public or a section of the public (for payment or not) must not discriminate against a person requiring the service by not providing the person with the service.

(2) A service-provider (A) must not, in providing the service, discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) as to the terms on which A provides the service to B;

(b) by terminating the provision of the service to B;

(c) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(3) A service-provider must not, in relation to the provision of the service, harass—

(a) a person requiring the service, or

(b) a person to whom the service-provider provides the service.

(4) A service-provider must not victimise a person requiring the service by not providing the person with the service.

(5) A service-provider (A) must not, in providing the service, victimise a person (B)—

(a) as to the terms on which A provides the service to B;

(b) by terminating the provision of the service to B;

(c) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(6) A person must not, in the exercise of a public function that is not the provision of a service to the public or a section of the public, do anything that constitutes discrimination, harassment or victimisation.

(7) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to—

(a) a service-provider (and see also section 55(7));

(b) a person who exercises a public function that is not the provision of a service to the public or a section of the public.

(8) In the application of section 26 for the purposes of subsection (3), and subsection (6) as it relates to harassment, neither of the following is a relevant protected characteristic—

(a) religion or belief;

(b) sexual orientation.

(9) In the application of this section, so far as relating to race or religion or belief, to the granting of entry clearance (within the meaning of the Immigration Act 1971), it does not matter whether an act is done within or outside the United Kingdom.

(10) Subsection (9) does not affect the application of any other provision of this Act to conduct outside England and Wales or Scotland.

Commencement Information

I11 S. 29 wholly in force at 1.10.2012; s. 29 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 29 in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(3); s. 29 in force so far as not already in force at 1.10.2012 by S.I. 2012/1569, art. 3(a)

Supplementary E+W+S

30 Ships and hovercraft E+W+S

(1) This Part (subject to subsection (2)) applies only in such circumstances as are prescribed in relation to—

(a) transporting people by ship or hovercraft;

(b) a service provided on a ship or hovercraft.

(2) Section 29(6) applies in relation to the matters referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) of subsection (1); but in so far as it relates to disability discrimination, section 29(6) applies to those matters only in such circumstances as are prescribed.

(3) It does not matter whether the ship or hovercraft is within or outside the United Kingdom.

(4) “Ship” has the same meaning as in the Merchant Shipping Act 1995.

(5) “Hovercraft” has the same meaning as in the Hovercraft Act 1968.

(6) Nothing in this section affects the application of any other provision of this Act to conduct outside England and Wales or Scotland.

Commencement Information

I12 S. 30 wholly in force at 1.10.2012; s. 30 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 30 in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(3); s. 30 in force so far as not already in force at 1.10.2012 by S.I. 2012/1569, art. 3(a)

31 Interpretation and exceptions E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of this Part.

(2) A reference to the provision of a service includes a reference to the provision of goods or facilities.

(3) A reference to the provision of a service includes a reference to the provision of a service in the exercise of a public function.

(4) A public function is a function that is a function of a public nature for the purposes of the Human Rights Act 1998.

(5) Where an employer arranges for another person to provide a service only to the employer's employees—

(a) the employer is not to be regarded as the service-provider, but

(b) the employees are to be regarded as a section of the public.

(6) A reference to a person requiring a service includes a reference to a person who is seeking to obtain or use the service.

(7) A reference to a service-provider not providing a person with a service includes a reference to—

(a) the service-provider not providing the person with a service of the quality that the service-provider usually provides to the public (or the section of it which includes the person), or

(b) the service-provider not providing the person with the service in the manner in which, or on the terms on which, the service-provider usually provides the service to the public (or the section of it which includes the person).

(8) In relation to the provision of a service by either House of Parliament, the service-provider is the Corporate Officer of the House concerned; and if the service involves access to, or use of, a place in the Palace of Westminster which members of the public are allowed to enter, both Corporate Officers are jointly the service-provider.

(9) Schedule 2 (reasonable adjustments) has effect.

(10) Schedule 3 (exceptions) has effect.

Commencement Information

I13 S. 31 wholly in force at 1.10.2012; s. 31 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 31 in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(3); s. 31(9) in force so far as not already in force at 1.9.2012 by S.I. 2012/2184, art. 2(a); s. 31(1)-(8)(10) in force so far as not already in force at 1.10.2012 by S.I. 2012/1569, art. 3(a)

Part 4 E+W+S Premises

Preliminary E+W+S

32 Application of this Part E+W+S

(1) This Part does not apply to the following protected characteristics—

(a) age;

(b) marriage and civil partnership.

(2) This Part does not apply to discrimination, harassment or victimisation—

(a) that is prohibited by Part 5 (work) or Part 6 (education), or

(b) that would be so prohibited but for an express exception.

(3) This Part does not apply to the provision of accommodation if the provision—

(a) is generally for the purpose of short stays by individuals who live elsewhere, or

(b) is for the purpose only of exercising a public function or providing a service to the public or a section of the public.

(4) The reference to the exercise of a public function, and the reference to the provision of a service, are to be construed in accordance with Part 3.

(5) This Part does not apply to—

(a) a breach of an equality clause or rule;

(b) anything that would be a breach of an equality clause or rule but for section 69 or Part 2 of Schedule 7;

(c) a breach of a non-discrimination rule.

Disposal and management E+W+S

33 Disposals, etc. E+W+S

(1) A person (A) who has the right to dispose of premises must not discriminate against another (B)—

(a) as to the terms on which A offers to dispose of the premises to B;

(b) by not disposing of the premises to B;

(c) in A's treatment of B with respect to things done in relation to persons seeking premises.

(2) Where an interest in a commonhold unit cannot be disposed of unless a particular person is a party to the disposal, that person must not discriminate against a person by not being a party to the disposal.

(3) A person who has the right to dispose of premises must not, in connection with anything done in relation to their occupation or disposal, harass—

(a) a person who occupies them;

(b) a person who applies for them.

(4) A person (A) who has the right to dispose of premises must not victimise another (B)—

(a) as to the terms on which A offers to dispose of the premises to B;

(b) by not disposing of the premises to B;

(c) in A's treatment of B with respect to things done in relation to persons seeking premises.

(5) Where an interest in a commonhold unit cannot be disposed of unless a particular person is a party to the disposal, that person must not victimise a person by not being a party to the disposal.

(6) In the application of section 26 for the purposes of subsection (3), neither of the following is a relevant protected characteristic—

(a) religion or belief;

(b) sexual orientation.

34 Permission for disposal E+W+S

(1) A person whose permission is required for the disposal of premises must not discriminate against another by not giving permission for the disposal of the premises to the other.

(2) A person whose permission is required for the disposal of premises must not, in relation to an application for permission to dispose of the premises, harass a person—

(a) who applies for permission to dispose of the premises, or

(b) to whom the disposal would be made if permission were given.

(3) A person whose permission is required for the disposal of premises must not victimise another by not giving permission for the disposal of the premises to the other.

(4) In the application of section 26 for the purposes of subsection (2), neither of the following is a relevant protected characteristic—

(a) religion or belief;

(b) sexual orientation.

(5) This section does not apply to anything done in the exercise of a judicial function.

35 Management E+W+S

(1) A person (A) who manages premises must not discriminate against a person (B) who occupies the premises—

(a) in the way in which A allows B, or by not allowing B, to make use of a benefit or facility;

(b) by evicting B (or taking steps for the purpose of securing B's eviction);

(c) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(2) A person who manages premises must not, in relation to their management, harass—

(a) a person who occupies them;

(b) a person who applies for them.

(3) A person (A) who manages premises must not victimise a person (B) who occupies the premises—

(a) in the way in which A allows B, or by not allowing B, to make use of a benefit or facility;

(b) by evicting B (or taking steps for the purpose of securing B's eviction);

(c) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(4) In the application of section 26 for the purposes of subsection (2), neither of the following is a relevant protected characteristic—

(a) religion or belief;

(b) sexual orientation.

Reasonable adjustments E+W+S

36 Leasehold and commonhold premises and common parts E+W+S

(1) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to—

(a) a controller of let premises;

(b) a controller of premises to let;

(c) a commonhold association;

(d) a responsible person in relation to common parts.

(2) A controller of let premises is—

(a) a person by whom premises are let, or

(b) a person who manages them.

(3) A controller of premises to let is—

(a) a person who has premises to let, or

(b) a person who manages them.

(4) The reference in subsection (1)(c) to a commonhold association is a reference to the association in its capacity as the person who manages a commonhold unit.

(5) A responsible person in relation to common parts is—

(a) where the premises to which the common parts relate are let (and are not part of commonhold land or in Scotland), a person by whom the premises are let;

(b) where the premises to which the common parts relate are part of commonhold land, the commonhold association.

(6) Common parts are—

(a) in relation to let premises (which are not part of commonhold land or in Scotland), the structure and exterior of, and any common facilities within or used in connection with, the building or part of a building which includes the premises;

(b) in relation to commonhold land, every part of the commonhold which is not for the time being a commonhold unit in accordance with the commonhold community statement.

(7) A reference to letting includes a reference to sub-letting; and for the purposes of subsection (1)(a) and (b), a reference to let premises includes premises subject to a right to occupy.

(8) This section does not apply to premises of such description as may be prescribed.

Commencement Information

I14 S. 36 partly in force; s. 36 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 36(1)(a)-(c)(2)-(4)(7)(8) in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(4)(b)

37 Adjustments to common parts in Scotland E+W+S

(1) The Scottish Ministers may by regulations provide that a disabled person is entitled to make relevant adjustments to common parts in relation to premises in Scotland.

(2) The reference in subsection (1) to a disabled person is a reference to a disabled person who—

(a) is a tenant of the premises,

(b) is an owner of the premises, or

(c) is otherwise entitled to occupy the premises,

and uses or intends to use the premises as the person's only or main home.

(3) Before making regulations under subsection (1), the Scottish Ministers must consult a Minister of the Crown.

(4) Regulations under subsection (1) may, in particular—

(a) prescribe things which are, or which are not, to be treated as relevant adjustments;

(b) prescribe circumstances in which the consent of an owner of the common parts is required before a disabled person may make an adjustment;

(c) provide that the consent to adjustments is not to be withheld unreasonably;

(d) prescribe matters to be taken into account, or to be disregarded, in deciding whether it is reasonable to consent to adjustments;

(e) prescribe circumstances in which consent to adjustments is to be taken to be withheld;

(f) make provision about the imposition of conditions on consent to adjustments;

(g) make provision as to circumstances in which the sheriff may make an order authorising a disabled person to carry out adjustments;

(h) make provision about the responsibility for costs arising (directly or indirectly) from an adjustment;

(i) make provision about the reinstatement of the common parts to the condition they were in before an adjustment was made;

(j) make provision about the giving of notice to the owners of the common parts and other persons;

(k) make provision about agreements between a disabled person and an owner of the common parts;

(l) make provision about the registration of information in the Land Register of Scotland or the recording of documents in the Register of Sasines relating to an entitlement of a disabled person or an obligation on an owner of the common parts;

(m) make provision about the effect of such registration or recording;

(n) make provision about who is to be treated as being, or as not being, a person entitled to occupy premises otherwise than as tenant or owner.

(5) In this section—

• “common parts” means, in relation to premises, the structure and exterior of, and any common facilities within or used in connection with, the building or part of a building which includes the premises but only in so far as the structure, exterior and common facilities are not solely owned by the owner of the premises;

• “relevant adjustments” means, in relation to a disabled person, alterations or additions which are likely to avoid a substantial disadvantage to which the disabled person is put in using the common parts in comparison with persons who are not disabled.

Supplementary E+W+S

38 Interpretation and exceptions E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of this Part.

(2) A reference to premises is a reference to the whole or part of the premises.

(3) A reference to disposing of premises includes, in the case of premises subject to a tenancy, a reference to—

(a) assigning the premises,

(b) sub-letting them, or

(c) parting with possession of them.

(4) A reference to disposing of premises also includes a reference to granting a right to occupy them.

(5) A reference to disposing of an interest in a commonhold unit includes a reference to creating an interest in a commonhold unit.

(6) A reference to a tenancy is to a tenancy created (whether before or after the passing of this Act)—

(a) by a lease or sub-lease,

(b) by an agreement for a lease or sub-lease,

(c) by a tenancy agreement, or

(d) in pursuance of an enactment,

and a reference to a tenant is to be construed accordingly.

(7) A reference to commonhold land, a commonhold association, a commonhold community statement, a commonhold unit or a unit-holder is to be construed in accordance with the Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act 2002.

(8) Schedule 4 (reasonable adjustments) has effect.

(9) Schedule 5 (exceptions) has effect.

Commencement Information

I15 S. 38 partly in force; s. 38 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 38(8) in force for certain purposes at 4.8.2010 by S.I. 2010/1966, art. 2; s. 38(1)-(7)(9) wholly in force and s. 38(8) in force for certain further purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(4)(c)(d) (with art. 15)

Part 5 U.K. Work

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C2 Pt. 5 excluded by 2005 c. 4, s. 63(4) (as inserted (15.7.2013) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 13 para. 10(3); S.I. 2013/1725, art. 2(g))

C3 Pt. 5 excluded by 2005 c. 4, s. 27(5A)(b) (as inserted (15.7.2013) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 13 para. 9; S.I. 2013/1725, art. 2(g))

C4 Pt. 5 excluded (coming into force in accordance with reg. 2(1) of the commencing S.I.) by Wales Act 2017 (c. 4), s. 71(4), Sch. 5 para. 5(4) (with Sch. 7 paras. 1, 6); S.I. 2017/351, reg. 2(2) [Editorial note: S.I. 2017/1282 was made under 2017 c. 4, Sch. 5 para. 7(1) and comes into force on 12.12.2017]

C5 Pt. 5 restricted (S.) (29.5.2020) by Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Act 2018 (asp 4), ss. 11(2), 13; S.S.I. 2020/119, reg. 2

C6 Pt. 5 applied (1.8.2011) by the Equality Act 2010 (Work on Ships and Hovercraft) Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1771), regs. 3-5

Chapter 1 E+W+S Employment, etc.

Employees E+W+S

39 Employees and applicants E+W+S

(1) An employer (A) must not discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding to whom to offer employment;

(b) as to the terms on which A offers B employment;

(c) by not offering B employment.

(2) An employer (A) must not discriminate against an employee of A's (B)—

(a) as to B's terms of employment;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by dismissing B;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(3) An employer (A) must not victimise a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding to whom to offer employment;

(b) as to the terms on which A offers B employment;

(c) by not offering B employment.

(4) An employer (A) must not victimise an employee of A's (B)—

(a) as to B's terms of employment;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or for any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by dismissing B;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(5) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to an employer.

(6) Subsection (1)(b), so far as relating to sex or pregnancy and maternity, does not apply to a term that relates to pay—

(a) unless, were B to accept the offer, an equality clause or rule would have effect in relation to the term, or

(b) if paragraph (a) does not apply, except in so far as making an offer on terms including that term amounts to a contravention of subsection (1)(b) by virtue of section 13, 14 or 18.

(7) In subsections (2)(c) and (4)(c), the reference to dismissing B includes a reference to the termination of B's employment—

(a) by the expiry of a period (including a period expiring by reference to an event or circumstance);

(b) by an act of B's (including giving notice) in circumstances such that B is entitled, because of A's conduct, to terminate the employment without notice.

(8) Subsection (7)(a) does not apply if, immediately after the termination, the employment is renewed on the same terms.

40 Employees and applicants: harassment E+W+S

(1) An employer (A) must not, in relation to employment by A, harass a person (B)—

(a) who is an employee of A's;

(b) who has applied to A for employment.

F47 (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F47 (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F47 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F47 S. 40(2)-(4) omitted (1.10.2013) by virtue of Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), ss. 65, 103(3); S.I. 2013/2227, art. 2(c) (with art. 4)

41 Contract workers E+W+S

(1) A principal must not discriminate against a contract worker—

(a) as to the terms on which the principal allows the worker to do the work;

(b) by not allowing the worker to do, or to continue to do, the work;

(c) in the way the principal affords the worker access, or by not affording the worker access, to opportunities for receiving a benefit, facility or service;

(d) by subjecting the worker to any other detriment.

(2) A principal must not, in relation to contract work, harass a contract worker.

(3) A principal must not victimise a contract worker—

(a) as to the terms on which the principal allows the worker to do the work;

(b) by not allowing the worker to do, or to continue to do, the work;

(c) in the way the principal affords the worker access, or by not affording the worker access, to opportunities for receiving a benefit, facility or service;

(d) by subjecting the worker to any other detriment.

(4) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to a principal (as well as to the employer of a contract worker).

(5) A “principal” is a person who makes work available for an individual who is—

(a) employed by another person, and

(b) supplied by that other person in furtherance of a contract to which the principal is a party (whether or not that other person is a party to it).

(6) “Contract work” is work such as is mentioned in subsection (5).

(7) A “contract worker” is an individual supplied to a principal in furtherance of a contract such as is mentioned in subsection (5)(b).

Police officers E+W+S

42 Identity of employer E+W+S

(1) For the purposes of this Part, holding the office of constable is to be treated as employment—

(a) by the chief officer, in respect of any act done by the chief officer in relation to a constable or appointment to the office of constable;

(b) by the responsible authority, in respect of any act done by the authority in relation to a constable or appointment to the office of constable.

(2) For the purposes of this Part, holding an appointment as a police cadet is to be treated as employment—

(a) by the chief officer, in respect of any act done by the chief officer in relation to a police cadet or appointment as one;

(b) by the responsible authority, in respect of any act done by the authority in relation to a police cadet or appointment as one.

(3) Subsection (1) does not apply to service with the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (as to which, see section 55(2) of the Energy Act 2004).

(4) Subsection (1) does not apply to a constable at [F48 NCA] [F49 or SPA].

(5) A constable at [F48 NCA] or [F50 SPA] is to be treated as employed by it, in respect of any act done by it in relation to the constable.

(6) F51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F48 Word in s. 42(4)(5) substituted (7.10.2013) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(2), Sch. 8 para. 181; S.I. 2013/1682, art. 3(v)

F49 Words in s. 42(4) substituted (1.4.2013) by The Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/602), arts. 1(2), 26, Sch. 2 para. 63(2)(a)

F50 Word in s. 42(5) substituted (1.4.2013) by The Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/602), arts. 1(2), 26, Sch. 2 para. 63(2)(b)

F51 S. 42(6) omitted (1.4.2013) by virtue of The Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/602), arts. 1(2), 26, Sch. 2 para. 63(2)(c)

43 Interpretation E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of section 42.

(2) “Chief officer” means—

(a) in relation to an appointment under a relevant Act, the chief officer of police for the police force to which the appointment relates;

(b) in relation to any other appointment, the person under whose direction and control the body of constables or other persons to which the appointment relates is;

(c) in relation to a constable or other person under the direction and control of a chief officer of police, that chief officer of police;

(d) in relation to any other constable or any other person, the person under whose direction and control the constable or other person is.

(3) “Responsible authority” means—

(a) in relation to an appointment under a relevant Act, the [F52 local policing body or police authority] that maintains the police force to which the appointment relates;

(b) in relation to any other appointment, the person by whom a person would (if appointed) be paid;

(c) in relation to a constable or other person under the direction and control of a chief officer of police, the [F52 local policing body or police authority] that maintains the police force for which that chief officer is the chief officer of police;

(d) in relation to any other constable or any other person, the person by whom the constable or other person is paid.

(4) “Police cadet” means a person appointed to undergo training with a view to becoming a constable.

[F53 (5) “NCA ” means the National Crime Agency; and a reference to a constable at NCA is a reference to a constable seconded to it to serve as an NCA officer. ]

[F54 (5A) “ SPA ” means the Scottish Police Authority; and a reference to a constable at SPA is a reference to a constable serving as a member of its staff by virtue of paragraph 7(1) of schedule 1 to the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012. ]

(7) F55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(8) For the purposes of this section, the relevant Acts are—

(a) the Metropolitan Police Act 1829;

(b) the City of London Police Act 1839;

(c) the [F56 Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012];

[F57 (d) the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011.]

[F58 (9) Subsections (2) and (3) apply in relation to Scotland as follows—

(a) a reference to a police authority includes a reference to the Scottish Police Authority;

(b) a reference to a police force includes a reference to the Police Service of Scotland; and

(c) a reference to a chief officer of police includes a reference to the chief constable of the Police Service of Scotland.]

Textual Amendments

F52 Words in s. 43(3) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 99, Sch. 16 para. 382(a); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, {Sch. 1 para. (nnn)(iii)}

F53 S. 43(5) substituted (7.10.2013) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(2), Sch. 8 para. 182; S.I. 2013/1682, art. 3(v)

F54 S. 43(5A) substituted (1.4.2013) for s. 43(6) by The Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/602), arts. 1(2), 26, Sch. 2 para. 63(3)(a)

F55 S. 43(7) omitted (1.4.2013) by virtue of The Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/602), arts. 1(2), 26, Sch. 2 para. 63(3)(b)

F56 Words in s. 43(8)(c) substituted (1.4.2013) by The Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/602), arts. 1(2), 26, Sch. 2 para. 63(3)(c)

F57 S. 43(8)(d) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 99, Sch. 16 para. 382(b); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, {Sch. 1 para. (nnn)(iii)} (with Sch. 2 para. 80)

F58 S. 43(9) substituted (1.4.2013) by The Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/602), arts. 1(2), 26, Sch. 2 para. 63(3)(d)

Partners E+W+S

44 Partnerships E+W+S

(1) A firm or proposed firm must not discriminate against a person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding to whom to offer a position as a partner;

(b) as to the terms on which it offers the person a position as a partner;

(c) by not offering the person a position as a partner.

(2) A firm (A) must not discriminate against a partner (B)—

(a) as to the terms on which B is a partner;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by expelling B;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(3) A firm must not, in relation to a position as a partner, harass—

(a) a partner;

(b) a person who has applied for the position.

(4) A proposed firm must not, in relation to a position as a partner, harass a person who has applied for the position.

(5) A firm or proposed firm must not victimise a person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding to whom to offer a position as a partner;

(b) as to the terms on which it offers the person a position as a partner;

(c) by not offering the person a position as a partner.

(6) A firm (A) must not victimise a partner (B)—

(a) as to the terms on which B is a partner;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by expelling B;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(7) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to—

(a) a firm;

(b) a proposed firm.

(8) In the application of this section to a limited partnership within the meaning of the Limited Partnerships Act 1907, “partner” means a general partner within the meaning of that Act.

45 Limited liability partnerships E+W+S

(1) An LLP or proposed LLP must not discriminate against a person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding to whom to offer a position as a member;

(b) as to the terms on which it offers the person a position as a member;

(c) by not offering the person a position as a member.

(2) An LLP (A) must not discriminate against a member (B)—

(a) as to the terms on which B is a member;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by expelling B;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(3) An LLP must not, in relation to a position as a member, harass—

(a) a member;

(b) a person who has applied for the position.

(4) A proposed LLP must not, in relation to a position as a member, harass a person who has applied for the position.

(5) An LLP or proposed LLP must not victimise a person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding to whom to offer a position as a member;

(b) as to the terms on which it offers the person a position as a member;

(c) by not offering the person a position as a member.

(6) An LLP (A) must not victimise a member (B)—

(a) as to the terms on which B is a member;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by expelling B;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(7) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to—

(a) an LLP;

(b) a proposed LLP.

46 Interpretation E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of sections 44 and 45.

(2) “Partnership” and “firm” have the same meaning as in the Partnership Act 1890.

(3) “Proposed firm” means persons proposing to form themselves into a partnership.

(4) “LLP” means a limited liability partnership (within the meaning of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2000).

(5) “Proposed LLP” means persons proposing to incorporate an LLP with themselves as members.

(6) A reference to expelling a partner of a firm or a member of an LLP includes a reference to the termination of the person's position as such—

(a) by the expiry of a period (including a period expiring by reference to an event or circumstance);

(b) by an act of the person (including giving notice) in circumstances such that the person is entitled, because of the conduct of other partners or members, to terminate the position without notice;

(c) (in the case of a partner of a firm) as a result of the dissolution of the partnership.

(7) Subsection (6)(a) and (c) does not apply if, immediately after the termination, the position is renewed on the same terms.

The Bar E+W+S

47 Barristers E+W+S

(1) A barrister (A) must not discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding to whom to offer a pupillage or tenancy;

(b) as to the terms on which A offers B a pupillage or tenancy;

(c) by not offering B a pupillage or tenancy.

(2) A barrister (A) must not discriminate against a person (B) who is a pupil or tenant—

(a) as to the terms on which B is a pupil or tenant;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for training or gaining experience or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by terminating the pupillage;

(d) by subjecting B to pressure to leave chambers;

(e) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(3) A barrister must not, in relation to a pupillage or tenancy, harass—

(a) the pupil or tenant;

(b) a person who has applied for the pupillage or tenancy.

(4) A barrister (A) must not victimise a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding to whom to offer a pupillage or tenancy;

(b) as to the terms on which A offers B a pupillage or tenancy;

(c) by not offering B a pupillage or tenancy.

(5) A barrister (A) must not victimise a person (B) who is a pupil or tenant—

(a) as to the terms on which B is a pupil or tenant;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for training or gaining experience or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by terminating the pupillage;

(d) by subjecting B to pressure to leave chambers;

(e) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(6) A person must not, in relation to instructing a barrister—

(a) discriminate against a barrister by subjecting the barrister to a detriment;

(b) harass the barrister;

(c) victimise the barrister.

(7) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to a barrister.

(8) The preceding provisions of this section (apart from subsection (6)) apply in relation to a barrister's clerk as they apply in relation to a barrister; and for that purpose the reference to a barrister's clerk includes a reference to a person who carries out the functions of a barrister's clerk.

(9) A reference to a tenant includes a reference to a barrister who is permitted to work in chambers (including as a squatter or door tenant); and a reference to a tenancy is to be construed accordingly.

48 Advocates E+W+S

(1) An advocate (A) must not discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding who to take as A's devil or to whom to offer membership of a stable;

(b) as to the terms on which A offers to take B as A's devil or offers B membership of a stable;

(c) by not offering to take B as A's devil or not offering B membership of a stable.

(2) An advocate (A) must not discriminate against a person (B) who is a devil or a member of a stable—

(a) as to the terms on which B is a devil or a member of the stable;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for training or gaining experience or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by terminating A's relationship with B (where B is a devil);

(d) by subjecting B to pressure to leave the stable;

(e) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(3) An advocate must not, in relation to a relationship with a devil or membership of a stable, harass—

(a) a devil or member;

(b) a person who has applied to be taken as the advocate's devil or to become a member of the stable.

(4) An advocate (A) must not victimise a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding who to take as A's devil or to whom to offer membership of a stable;

(b) as to the terms on which A offers to take B as A's devil or offers B membership of a stable;

(c) by not offering to take B as A's devil or not offering B membership of a stable.

(5) An advocate (A) must not victimise a person (B) who is a devil or a member of a stable—

(a) as to the terms on which B is a devil or a member of the stable;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for training or gaining experience or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by terminating A's relationship with B (where B is a devil);

(d) by subjecting B to pressure to leave the stable;

(e) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(6) A person must not, in relation to instructing an advocate—

(a) discriminate against the advocate by subjecting the advocate to a detriment;

(b) harass the advocate;

(c) victimise the advocate.

(7) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to an advocate.

(8) This section (apart from subsection (6)) applies in relation to an advocate's clerk as it applies in relation to an advocate; and for that purpose the reference to an advocate's clerk includes a reference to a person who carries out the functions of an advocate's clerk.

(9) “Advocate” means a practising member of the Faculty of Advocates.

Office-holders E+W+S

49 Personal offices: appointments, etc. E+W+S

(1) This section applies in relation to personal offices.

(2) A personal office is an office or post—

(a) to which a person is appointed to discharge a function personally under the direction of another person, and

(b) in respect of which an appointed person is entitled to remuneration.

(3) A person (A) who has the power to make an appointment to a personal office must not discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding to whom to offer the appointment;

(b) as to the terms on which A offers B the appointment;

(c) by not offering B the appointment.

(4) A person who has the power to make an appointment to a personal office must not, in relation to the office, harass a person seeking, or being considered for, the appointment.

(5) A person (A) who has the power to make an appointment to a personal office must not victimise a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding to whom to offer the appointment;

(b) as to the terms on which A offers B the appointment;

(c) by not offering B the appointment.

(6) A person (A) who is a relevant person in relation to a personal office must not discriminate against a person (B) appointed to the office—

(a) as to the terms of B's appointment;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by terminating B's appointment;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(7) A relevant person in relation to a personal office must not, in relation to that office, harass a person appointed to it.

(8) A person (A) who is a relevant person in relation to a personal office must not victimise a person (B) appointed to the office—

(a) as to the terms of B's appointment;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by terminating B's appointment;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(9) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to—

(a) a person who has the power to make an appointment to a personal office;

(b) a relevant person in relation to a personal office.

(10) For the purposes of subsection (2)(a), a person is to be regarded as discharging functions personally under the direction of another person if that other person is entitled to direct the person as to when and where to discharge the functions.

(11) For the purposes of subsection (2)(b), a person is not to be regarded as entitled to remuneration merely because the person is entitled to payments—

(a) in respect of expenses incurred by the person in discharging the functions of the office or post, or

(b) by way of compensation for the loss of income or benefits the person would or might have received had the person not been discharging the functions of the office or post.

(12) Subsection (3)(b), so far as relating to sex or pregnancy and maternity, does not apply to a term that relates to pay—

(a) unless, were B to accept the offer, an equality clause or rule would have effect in relation to the term, or

(b) if paragraph (a) does not apply, except in so far as making an offer on terms including that term amounts to a contravention of subsection (3)(b) by virtue of section 13, 14 or 18.

50 Public offices: appointments, etc. E+W+S

(1) This section and section 51 apply in relation to public offices.

(2) A public office is—

(a) an office or post, appointment to which is made by a member of the executive;

(b) an office or post, appointment to which is made on the recommendation of, or subject to the approval of, a member of the executive;

(c) an office or post, appointment to which is made on the recommendation of, or subject to the approval of, the House of Commons, the House of Lords, the National Assembly for Wales or the Scottish Parliament.

[F59 (d) an office or post, appointment to which is made by the Lord Chief Justice or the Senior President of Tribunals.]

(3) A person (A) who has the power to make an appointment to a public office within subsection (2)(a) [F60 , (b) or (d)] must not discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding to whom to offer the appointment;

(b) as to the terms on which A offers B the appointment;

(c) by not offering B the appointment.

(4) A person who has the power to make an appointment to a public office within subsection (2)(a) [F60 , (b) or (d)] must not, in relation to the office, harass a person seeking, or being considered for, the appointment.

(5) A person (A) who has the power to make an appointment to a public office within subsection (2)(a) [F60 , (b) or (d)] must not victimise a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding to whom to offer the appointment;

(b) as to the terms on which A offers B the appointment;

(c) by not offering B the appointment.

(6) A person (A) who is a relevant person in relation to a public office within subsection (2)(a) [F60 , (b) or (d)] must not discriminate against a person (B) appointed to the office—

(a) as to B's terms of appointment;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by terminating the appointment;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(7) A person (A) who is a relevant person in relation to a public office within subsection (2)(c) must not discriminate against a person (B) appointed to the office—

(a) as to B's terms of appointment;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by subjecting B to any other detriment (other than by terminating the appointment).

(8) A relevant person in relation to a public office must not, in relation to that office, harass a person appointed to it.

(9) A person (A) who is a relevant person in relation to a public office within subsection (2)(a) [F61 , (b) or (d)] must not victimise a person (B) appointed to the office—

(a) as to B's terms of appointment;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by terminating the appointment;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(10) A person (A) who is a relevant person in relation to a public office within subsection (2)(c) must not victimise a person (B) appointed to the office—

(a) as to B's terms of appointment;

(b) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or for receiving any other benefit, facility or service;

(c) by subjecting B to any other detriment (other than by terminating the appointment).

(11) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to—

(a) a relevant person in relation to a public office;

(b) a person who has the power to make an appointment to a public office within subsection (2)(a) [F62 , (b) or (d)].

(12) Subsection (3)(b), so far as relating to sex or pregnancy and maternity, does not apply to a term that relates to pay—

(a) unless, were B to accept the offer, an equality clause or rule would have effect in relation to the term, or

(b) if paragraph (a) does not apply, except in so far as making an offer on terms including that term amounts to a contravention of subsection (3)(b) by virtue of section 13, 14 or 18.

Textual Amendments

F59 S. 50(2)(d) inserted (1.10.2013) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 13 para. 50(2); S.I. 2013/2200, art. 3(e) (with savings in S.I. 2013/2192, regs. 48, 49)

F60 Words in s. 50(3)-(6) substituted (1.10.2013) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 13 para. 50(3); S.I. 2013/2200, art. 3(e) (with savings in S.I. 2013/2192, regs. 48, 49)

F61 Words in s. 50(9) substituted (1.10.2013) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 13 para. 50(3); S.I. 2013/2200, art. 3(e) (with savings in S.I. 2013/2192, regs. 48, 49)

F62 Words in s. 50(11)(b) substituted (1.10.2013) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 13 para. 50(3); S.I. 2013/2200, art. 3(e) (with savings in S.I. 2013/2192, regs. 48, 49)

51 Public offices: recommendations for appointments, etc. E+W+S

(1) A person (A) who has the power to make a recommendation for or give approval to an appointment to a public office within section 50(2)(a) [F63 , (b) or (d)], must not discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding who to recommend for appointment or to whose appointment to give approval;

(b) by not recommending B for appointment to the office;

(c) by making a negative recommendation of B for appointment to the office;

(d) by not giving approval to the appointment of B to the office.

(2) A person who has the power to make a recommendation for or give approval to an appointment to a public office within section 50(2)(a) [F63 , (b) or (d)] must not, in relation to the office, harass a person seeking or being considered for the recommendation or approval.

(3) A person (A) who has the power to make a recommendation for or give approval to an appointment to a public office within section 50(2)(a) [F63 , (b) or (d)], must not victimise a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding who to recommend for appointment or to whose appointment to give approval;

(b) by not recommending B for appointment to the office;

(c) by making a negative recommendation of B for appointment to the office;

(d) by not giving approval to the appointment of B to the office.

(4) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to a person who has the power to make a recommendation for or give approval to an appointment to a public office within section 50(2)(a) [F63 , (b) or (d)].

(5) A reference in this section to a person who has the power to make a recommendation for or give approval to an appointment to a public office within section 50(2)(a) [F64 or (d)] is a reference only to a relevant body which has that power; and for that purpose “relevant body” means a body established—

(a) by or in pursuance of an enactment, or

(b) by a member of the executive.

Textual Amendments

F63 Words in s. 51(1)-(4) substituted (1.10.2013) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 13 para. 51(2); S.I. 2013/2200, art. 3(e) (with savings in S.I. 2013/2192, regs. 48, 49)

F64 Words in s. 51(5) inserted (1.10.2013) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 13 para. 51(3); S.I. 2013/2200, art. 3(e) (with savings in S.I. 2013/2192, regs. 48, 49)

52 Interpretation and exceptions E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of sections 49 to 51.

(2) “Personal office” has the meaning given in section 49.

(3) “Public office” has the meaning given in section 50.

(4) An office or post which is both a personal office and a public office is to be treated as being a public office only.

(5) Appointment to an office or post does not include election to it.

(6) “Relevant person”, in relation to an office, means the person who, in relation to a matter specified in the first column of the table, is specified in the second column (but a reference to a relevant person does not in any case include the House of Commons, the House of Lords, the National Assembly for Wales or the Scottish Parliament).

Matter	Relevant person
A term of appointment	The person who has the power to set the term.
Access to an opportunity	The person who has the power to afford access to the opportunity (or, if there is no such person, the person who has the power to make the appointment).
Terminating an appointment	The person who has the power to terminate the appointment.
Subjecting an appointee to any other detriment	The person who has the power in relation to the matter to which the conduct in question relates (or, if there is no such person, the person who has the power to make the appointment).
Harassing an appointee	The person who has the power in relation to the matter to which the conduct in question relates.

(7) A reference to terminating a person's appointment includes a reference to termination of the appointment—

(a) by the expiry of a period (including a period expiring by reference to an event or circumstance);

(b) by an act of the person (including giving notice) in circumstances such that the person is entitled, because of the relevant person's conduct, to terminate the appointment without notice.

(8) Subsection (7)(a) does not apply if, immediately after the termination, the appointment is renewed on the same terms.

(9) Schedule 6 (excluded offices) has effect.

Qualifications E+W+S

53 Qualifications bodies E+W+S

(1) A qualifications body (A) must not discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding upon whom to confer a relevant qualification;

(b) as to the terms on which it is prepared to confer a relevant qualification on B;

(c) by not conferring a relevant qualification on B.

(2) A qualifications body (A) must not discriminate against a person (B) upon whom A has conferred a relevant qualification—

(a) by withdrawing the qualification from B;

(b) by varying the terms on which B holds the qualification;

(c) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(3) A qualifications body must not, in relation to conferment by it of a relevant qualification, harass—

(a) a person who holds the qualification, or

(b) a person who applies for it.

(4) A qualifications body (A) must not victimise a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding upon whom to confer a relevant qualification;

(b) as to the terms on which it is prepared to confer a relevant qualification on B;

(c) by not conferring a relevant qualification on B.

(5) A qualifications body (A) must not victimise a person (B) upon whom A has conferred a relevant qualification—

(a) by withdrawing the qualification from B;

(b) by varying the terms on which B holds the qualification;

(c) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(6) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to a qualifications body.

(7) The application by a qualifications body of a competence standard to a disabled person is not disability discrimination unless it is discrimination by virtue of section 19.

54 Interpretation E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of section 53.

(2) A qualifications body is an authority or body which can confer a relevant qualification.

(3) A relevant qualification is an authorisation, qualification, recognition, registration, enrolment, approval or certification which is needed for, or facilitates engagement in, a particular trade or profession.

(4) An authority or body is not a qualifications body in so far as—

(a) it can confer a qualification to which section 96 applies,

(b) it is the responsible body of a school to which section 85 applies,

(c) it is the governing body of an institution to which section 91 applies,

(d) it exercises functions under the Education Acts, or

(e) it exercises functions under the Education (Scotland) Act 1980.

(5) A reference to conferring a relevant qualification includes a reference to renewing or extending the conferment of a relevant qualification.

(6) A competence standard is an academic, medical or other standard applied for the purpose of determining whether or not a person has a particular level of competence or ability.

Employment services E+W+S

55 Employment service-providers E+W+S

(1) A person (an “employment service-provider”) concerned with the provision of an employment service must not discriminate against a person—

(a) in the arrangements the service-provider makes for selecting persons to whom to provide, or to whom to offer to provide, the service;

(b) as to the terms on which the service-provider offers to provide the service to the person;

(c) by not offering to provide the service to the person.

(2) An employment service-provider (A) must not, in relation to the provision of an employment service, discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) as to the terms on which A provides the service to B;

(b) by not providing the service to B;

(c) by terminating the provision of the service to B;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(3) An employment service-provider must not, in relation to the provision of an employment service, harass—

(a) a person who asks the service-provider to provide the service;

(b) a person for whom the service-provider provides the service.

(4) An employment service-provider (A) must not victimise a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for selecting persons to whom to provide, or to whom to offer to provide, the service;

(b) as to the terms on which A offers to provide the service to B;

(c) by not offering to provide the service to B.

(5) An employment service-provider (A) must not, in relation to the provision of an employment service, victimise a person (B)—

(a) as to the terms on which A provides the service to B;

(b) by not providing the service to B;

(c) by terminating the provision of the service to B;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(6) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to an employment service-provider, except in relation to the provision of a vocational service.

(7) The duty imposed by section 29(7)(a) applies to a person concerned with the provision of a vocational service; but a failure to comply with that duty in relation to the provision of a vocational service is a contravention of this Part for the purposes of Part 9 (enforcement).

56 Interpretation E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of section 55.

(2) The provision of an employment service includes—

(a) the provision of vocational training;

(b) the provision of vocational guidance;

(c) making arrangements for the provision of vocational training or vocational guidance;

(d) the provision of a service for finding employment for persons;

(e) the provision of a service for supplying employers with persons to do work;

(f) the provision of a service in pursuance of arrangements made under section 2 of the Employment and Training Act 1973 (functions of the Secretary of State relating to employment);

(g) the provision of a service in pursuance of arrangements made or a direction given under section 10 of that Act (careers services);

(h) the exercise of a function in pursuance of arrangements made under section 2(3) of the Enterprise and New Towns (Scotland) Act 1990 (functions of Scottish Enterprise, etc. relating to employment);

(i) an assessment related to the conferment of a relevant qualification within the meaning of section 53 above (except in so far as the assessment is by the qualifications body which confers the qualification).

(3) This section does not apply in relation to training or guidance in so far as it is training or guidance in relation to which another provision of this Part applies.

(4) This section does not apply in relation to training or guidance for pupils of a school to which section 85 applies in so far as it is training or guidance to which the responsible body of the school has power to afford access (whether as the responsible body of that school or as the responsible body of any other school at which the training or guidance is provided).

(5) This section does not apply in relation to training or guidance for students of an institution to which section 91 applies in so far as it is training or guidance to which the governing body of the institution has power to afford access.

(6) “Vocational training” means—

(a) training for employment, or

(b) work experience (including work experience the duration of which is not agreed until after it begins).

(7) A reference to the provision of a vocational service is a reference to the provision of an employment service within subsection (2)(a) to (d) (or an employment service within subsection (2)(f) or (g) in so far as it is also an employment service within subsection (2)(a) to (d)); and for that purpose—

(a) the references to an employment service within subsection (2)(a) do not include a reference to vocational training within the meaning given by subsection (6)(b), and

(b) the references to an employment service within subsection (2)(d) also include a reference to a service for assisting persons to retain employment.

(8) A reference to training includes a reference to facilities for training.

Trade organisations E+W+S

57 Trade organisations E+W+S

(1) A trade organisation (A) must not discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding to whom to offer membership of the organisation;

(b) as to the terms on which it is prepared to admit B as a member;

(c) by not accepting B's application for membership.

(2) A trade organisation (A) must not discriminate against a member (B)—

(a) in the way it affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for receiving a benefit, facility or service;

(b) by depriving B of membership;

(c) by varying the terms on which B is a member;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(3) A trade organisation must not, in relation to membership of it, harass—

(a) a member, or

(b) an applicant for membership.

(4) A trade organisation (A) must not victimise a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding to whom to offer membership of the organisation;

(b) as to the terms on which it is prepared to admit B as a member;

(c) by not accepting B's application for membership.

(5) A trade organisation (A) must not victimise a member (B)—

(a) in the way it affords B access, or by not affording B access, to opportunities for receiving a benefit, facility or service;

(b) by depriving B of membership;

(c) by varying the terms on which B is a member;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(6) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to a trade organisation.

(7) A trade organisation is—

(a) an organisation of workers,

(b) an organisation of employers, or

(c) any other organisation whose members carry on a particular trade or profession for the purposes of which the organisation exists.

Local authority members E+W+S

58 Official business of members E+W+S

(1) A local authority must not discriminate against a member of the authority in relation to the member's carrying out of official business—

(a) in the way the authority affords the member access, or by not affording the member access, to opportunities for training or for receiving any other facility;

(b) by subjecting the member to any other detriment.

(2) A local authority must not, in relation to a member's carrying out of official business, harass the member.

(3) A local authority must not victimise a member of the authority in relation to the member's carrying out of official business—

(a) in the way the authority affords the member access, or by not affording the member access, to opportunities for training or for receiving any other facility;

(b) by subjecting the member to any other detriment.

(4) A member of a local authority is not subjected to a detriment for the purposes of subsection (1)(b) or (3)(b) only because the member is—

(a) not appointed or elected to an office of the authority,

(b) not appointed or elected to, or to an office of, a committee or sub-committee of the authority, or

(c) not appointed or nominated in exercise of an appointment power of the authority.

(5) In subsection (4)(c), an appointment power of a local authority is a power of the authority, or of a group of bodies including the authority, to make—

(a) appointments to a body;

(b) nominations for appointment to a body.

(6) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to a local authority.

59 Interpretation E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of section 58.

(2) “Local authority” means—

(a) a county council in England;

(b) a district council in England;

(c) the Greater London Authority;

(d) a London borough council;

(e) the Common Council of the City of London;

(f) the Council of the Isles of Scilly;

(g) a parish council in England;

(h) a county council in Wales;

(i) a community council in Wales;

(j) a county borough council in Wales;

[F65 (ja) a corporate joint committee established by regulations made under Part 5 of the Local Government and Elections (Wales) Act 2021;]

(k) a council constituted under section 2 of the Local Government etc. (Scotland) Act 1994;

(l) a community council in Scotland.

(3) A Minister of the Crown may by order amend subsection (2) so as to add, vary or omit a reference to a body which exercises functions that have been conferred on a local authority within paragraph (a) to (l).

(4) A reference to the carrying-out of official business by a person who is a member of a local authority is a reference to the doing of anything by the person—

(a) as a member of the authority,

(b) as a member of a body to which the person is appointed by, or appointed following nomination by, the authority or a group of bodies including the authority, or

(c) as a member of any other public body.

(5) “Member”, in relation to the Greater London Authority, means—

(a) the Mayor of London;

(b) a member of the London Assembly.

Textual Amendments

F65 S. 59(2)(ja) inserted (E.W.) (1.4.2021) by The Corporate Joint Committees (General) (Wales) Regulations 2021 (S.I. 2021/327), reg. 1(2), Sch. 3 para. 2

Recruitment [F66 etc] E+W+S

Textual Amendments

F66 Word in s. 60 cross-heading inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 4(2)

60 Enquiries about disability and health E+W+S

(1) A person (A) to whom an application for work is made must not ask about the health of the applicant (B)—

(a) before offering work to B, or

(b) where A is not in a position to offer work to B, before including B in a pool of applicants from whom A intends (when in a position to do so) to select a person to whom to offer work.

(2) A contravention of subsection (1) (or a contravention of section 111 or 112 that relates to a contravention of subsection (1)) is enforceable as an unlawful act under Part 1 of the Equality Act 2006 (and, by virtue of section 120(8), is enforceable only by the Commission under that Part).

(3) A does not contravene a relevant disability provision merely by asking about B's health; but A's conduct in reliance on information given in response may be a contravention of a relevant disability provision.

(4) Subsection (5) applies if B brings proceedings before an employment tribunal on a complaint that A's conduct in reliance on information given in response to a question about B's health is a contravention of a relevant disability provision.

(5) In the application of section 136 to the proceedings, the particulars of the complaint are to be treated for the purposes of subsection (2) of that section as facts from which the tribunal could decide that A contravened the provision.

(6) This section does not apply to a question that A asks in so far as asking the question is necessary for the purpose of—

(a) establishing whether B will be able to comply with a requirement to undergo an assessment or establishing whether a duty to make reasonable adjustments is or will be imposed on A in relation to B in connection with a requirement to undergo an assessment,

(b) establishing whether B will be able to carry out a function that is intrinsic to the work concerned,

(c) monitoring diversity in the range of persons applying to A for work,

(d) taking action to which section 158 would apply if references in that section to persons who share (or do not share) a protected characteristic were references to disabled persons (or persons who are not disabled) and the reference to the characteristic were a reference to disability, or

(e) if A applies in relation to the work a requirement to have a particular disability, establishing whether B has that disability.

(7) In subsection (6)(b), where A reasonably believes that a duty to make reasonable adjustments would be imposed on A in relation to B in connection with the work, the reference to a function that is intrinsic to the work is to be read as a reference to a function that would be intrinsic to the work once A complied with the duty.

(8) Subsection (6)(e) applies only if A shows that, having regard to the nature or context of the work—

(a) the requirement is an occupational requirement, and

(b) the application of the requirement is a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.

(9) “Work” means employment, contract work, a position as a partner, a position as a member of an LLP, a pupillage or tenancy, being taken as a devil, membership of a stable, an appointment to a personal or public office, or the provision of an employment service; and the references in subsection (1) to offering a person work are, in relation to contract work, to be read as references to allowing a person to do the work.

(10) A reference to offering work is a reference to making a conditional or unconditional offer of work (and, in relation to contract work, is a reference to allowing a person to do the work subject to fulfilment of one or more conditions).

(11) The following, so far as relating to discrimination within section 13 because of disability, are relevant disability provisions—

(a) section 39(1)(a) or (c);

(b) section 41(1)(b);

(c) section 44(1)(a) or (c);

(d) section 45(1)(a) or (c);

(e) section 47(1)(a) or (c);

(f) section 48(1)(a) or (c);

(g) section 49(3)(a) or (c);

(h) section 50(3)(a) or (c);

(i) section 51(1);

(j) section 55(1)(a) or (c);

[F67 (k) section 60A(1).]

(12) An assessment is an interview or other process designed to give an indication of a person's suitability for the work concerned.

(13) For the purposes of this section, whether or not a person has a disability is to be regarded as an aspect of that person's health.

(14) This section does not apply to anything done for the purpose of vetting applicants for work for reasons of national security.

Textual Amendments

F67 S. 60(11)(k) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 4(3)

[F68 60A Discriminatory statements E+W+S

(1) A person (A) must not make a discriminatory statement in connection with a relevant decision that A makes or might make.

(2) References in this section to a “relevant decision” are to be determined as follows—

Where A is—	A relevant decision is—
An employer	Deciding to whom to offer employment
A principal (as defined by section 41(5))	Deciding whether to allow a contract worker (as defined by section 41(7)) to do, or to continue to do, work
A firm or proposed firm (as defined by section 46(2) and (3))	Deciding to whom to offer a position as a partner (read in accordance with section 44(8))
An LLP or proposed LLP (as defined by section 46(4) and (5))	Deciding to whom to offer a position as a member
A barrister or a barrister’s clerk (read in accordance with section 47(8))	Deciding to whom to offer a pupillage or tenancy
An advocate (as defined by section 48(9)) or an advocate’s clerk (read in accordance with section 48(8))	Deciding who to take as a devil or to whom to offer membership of a stable
A person with power to make an appointment to a personal office (as defined by section 49(2))	Deciding to whom to offer the appointment
A person with power to make an appointment to a public office within section 50(2)(a), (b) or (d)	Deciding to whom to offer the appointment
A person with power to make a recommendation for or give approval to an appointment to a public office within section 50(2)(a), (b) or (d) (read in accordance with section 51(5))	Deciding who to recommend for appointment or to whose appointment to give approval
A qualifications body (as defined by section 54)	Deciding to whom to confer a relevant qualification (as defined by section 54)
A person concerned with the provision of an employment service (read in accordance with section 56)	Deciding on the selection of persons to whom to provide, or to whom to offer to provide, the employment service
A trade organisation (as defined by section 57(7))	Deciding to whom to offer membership of the organisation.

(3) For the purposes of subsection (1) a statement is discriminatory if—

(a) it is directed to the public or a section of the public, and

(b) were it made in connection with a relevant decision, the making of it would amount to treatment of a person that is direct discrimination.

(4) A statement made by a person (B) who—

(a) is not an employee of A acting in the course of B’s employment, and

(b) is not an agent of A acting with A’s authority,

is to be treated for the purposes of this section as if made by A if there are reasonable grounds for the public, or a section of the public, to believe that B is capable of exercising decisive influence on the making by A of a relevant decision.

(5) Regard is to be had (among other things) to the factors mentioned in subsection (6) when determining—

(a) whether a statement is made in connection with a relevant decision for the purposes of subsection (1);

(b) whether there are reasonable grounds for the belief mentioned in subsection (4).

(6) The factors are—

(a) the status of the person making the statement at the time it is made;

(b) the nature and content of the statement;

(c) the context in which the statement is made;

(d) in the case of a statement that A is treated as having made by virtue of subsection (4), the steps (if any) taken by A to disassociate A from the statement made by B.

(7) It does not matter for the purposes of this section whether or not—

(a) an individual has or may have been affected by the discriminatory statement in question;

(b) A has made, or plans to make, arrangements which would involve the making of a relevant decision.

(8) A contravention of subsection (1) (or a contravention of section 111 or 112 that relates to a contravention of subsection (1)) is enforceable as an unlawful act under Part 1 of the Equality Act 2006 (and, by virtue of section 120(8), is enforceable only by the Commission under that Part).

(9) In subsection (3) the reference to direct discrimination is to a contravention of this Act by virtue of section 13 or 18.

(10) Nothing in this section limits or otherwise affects—

(a) other prohibitions imposed by this Chapter;

(b) the application of section 109 (liability of employers and principals for acts of employees and agents).]

Textual Amendments

F68 S. 60A inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 4(4)

Chapter 2 E+W+S Occupational pension schemes

61 Non-discrimination rule E+W+S

(1) An occupational pension scheme must be taken to include a non-discrimination rule.

(2) A non-discrimination rule is a provision by virtue of which a responsible person (A)—

(a) must not discriminate against another person (B) in carrying out any of A's functions in relation to the scheme;

(b) must not, in relation to the scheme, harass B;

(c) must not, in relation to the scheme, victimise B.

(3) The provisions of an occupational pension scheme have effect subject to the non-discrimination rule.

(4) The following are responsible persons—

(a) the trustees or managers of the scheme;

(b) an employer whose employees are, or may be, members of the scheme;

(c) a person exercising an appointing function in relation to an office the holder of which is, or may be, a member of the scheme.

(5) A non-discrimination rule does not apply in relation to a person who is a pension credit member of a scheme.

(6) An appointing function is any of the following—

(a) the function of appointing a person;

(b) the function of terminating a person's appointment;

(c) the function of recommending a person for appointment;

(d) the function of approving an appointment.

(7) A breach of a non-discrimination rule is a contravention of this Part for the purposes of Part 9 (enforcement).

(8) It is not a breach of a non-discrimination rule for the employer or the trustees or managers of a scheme to maintain or use in relation to the scheme rules, practices, actions or decisions relating to age which are of a description specified by order by a Minister of the Crown.

(9) An order authorising the use of rules, practices, actions or decisions which are not in use before the order comes into force must not be made unless the Minister consults such persons as the Minister thinks appropriate.

(10) A non-discrimination rule does not have effect in relation to an occupational pension scheme in so far as an equality rule has effect in relation to it (or would have effect in relation to it but for Part 2 of Schedule 7).

(11) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to a responsible person.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C7 S. 61 excluded (10.3.2022 for specified purposes) by the Public Service Pensions and Judicial Offices Act 2022 (c. 7), ss. 30, 131(1)(2)(a)(b) (with ss. 31(1), 32)

C8 S. 61 excluded (10.3.2022 for specified purposes, 4.7.2023 in so far as not already in force) by Public Service Pensions and Judicial Offices Act 2022 (c. 7), ss. 66, 131(1)(2)(c) (with ss. 67(1), 68); S.I. 2023/746, reg. 2(a)

C9 S. 61 excluded (10.3.2022 for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force) by Public Service Pensions and Judicial Offices Act 2022 (c. 7), ss., 30, 131(2)(a)(b) (with ss. 31(1), 32)

Commencement Information

I16 S. 61 wholly in force; s. 61 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 61(8)(9) in force for certain purposes at 6.7.2010 by S.I. 2010/1736, art. 2, Sch.; s. 61 in force at 1.10.2010 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(5)(b) (with art. 15)

62 Non-discrimination alterations E+W+S

(1) This section applies if the trustees or managers of an occupational pension scheme do not have power to make non-discrimination alterations to the scheme.

(2) This section also applies if the trustees or managers of an occupational pension scheme have power to make non-discrimination alterations to the scheme but the procedure for doing so—

(a) is liable to be unduly complex or protracted, or

(b) involves obtaining consents which cannot be obtained or which can be obtained only with undue delay or difficulty.

(3) The trustees or managers may by resolution make non-discrimination alterations to the scheme.

(4) Non-discrimination alterations may have effect in relation to a period before the date on which they are made.

(5) Non-discrimination alterations to an occupational pension scheme are such alterations to the scheme as may be required for the provisions of the scheme to have the effect that they have in consequence of section 61(3).

63 Communications E+W+S

(1) In their application to communications the following provisions apply in relation to a disabled person who is a pension credit member of an occupational pension scheme as they apply in relation to a disabled person who is a deferred member or pensioner member of the scheme—

(a) section 61;

(b) section 120;

(c) section 126;

(d) paragraph 19 of Schedule 8 (and such other provisions of that Schedule as apply for the purposes of that paragraph).

(2) Communications include—

(a) the provision of information;

(b) the operation of a dispute resolution procedure.

Chapter 3 E+W+S Equality of terms

Sex equality E+W+S

64 Relevant types of work E+W+S

(1) Sections 66 to 70 apply where—

(a) a person (A) is employed on work that is equal to the work that a comparator of the opposite sex (B) does;

(b) a person (A) holding a personal or public office does work that is equal to the work that a comparator of the opposite sex (B) does.

(2) The references in subsection (1) to the work that B does are not restricted to work done contemporaneously with the work done by A.

[F69 (3) Sections 66 to 68 and 70 apply where a person (A) is or has been in pensionable service under an occupational pension scheme (regardless of whether those sections also apply in A’s case by virtue of subsection (1)).]

Textual Amendments

F69 S. 64(3) inserted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(b) of the amending S.I.) by The Pensions Act 2004 and the Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) (Equal Treatment by Occupational Pension Schemes) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1308), reg. 3(2)

65 Equal work E+W+S

(1) For the purposes of this Chapter, A's work is equal to that of B if it is—

(a) like B's work,

(b) rated as equivalent to B's work, or

(c) of equal value to B's work.

(2) A's work is like B's work if—

(a) A's work and B's work are the same or broadly similar, and

(b) such differences as there are between their work are not of practical importance in relation to the terms of their work.

(3) So on a comparison of one person's work with another's for the purposes of subsection (2), it is necessary to have regard to—

(a) the frequency with which differences between their work occur in practice, and

(b) the nature and extent of the differences.

(4) A's work is rated as equivalent to B's work if a job evaluation study—

(a) gives an equal value to A's job and B's job in terms of the demands made on a worker, or

(b) would give an equal value to A's job and B's job in those terms were the evaluation not made on a sex-specific system.

(5) A system is sex-specific if, for the purposes of one or more of the demands made on a worker, it sets values for men different from those it sets for women.

(6) A's work is of equal value to B's work if it is—

(a) neither like B's work nor rated as equivalent to B's work, but

(b) nevertheless equal to B's work in terms of the demands made on A by reference to factors such as effort, skill and decision-making.

66 Sex equality clause E+W+S

(1) If the terms of A's work do not (by whatever means) include a sex equality clause, they are to be treated as including one.

(2) [F70 Where this section applies by virtue of section 64(1),] a sex equality clause is a provision that has the following effect—

(a) if a term of A's is less favourable to A than a corresponding term of B's is to B, A's term is modified so as not to be less favourable;

(b) if A does not have a term which corresponds to a term of B's that benefits B, A's terms are modified so as to include such a term.

(3) Subsection (2)(a) applies to a term of A's relating to membership of or rights under an occupational pension scheme only in so far as a sex equality rule would have effect in relation to the term.

(4) In the case of work within section 65(1)(b), a reference in subsection (2) above to a term includes a reference to such terms (if any) as have not been determined by the rating of the work (as well as those that have).

[F71 (5) Where this section applies by virtue of section 64(3), a sex equality clause is a provision that has the effect that if, by virtue of the application of the guaranteed minimum pension provisions, a term of A’s that relates to membership of or rights under the scheme concerned is less favourable to A than it would be if A were of the opposite sex, the term, in so far as a sex equality rule would have effect in relation to it, is modified so as not to be less favourable.

(6) “Guaranteed minimum pension provisions” means so much of the Pension Schemes Act 1993 and of any other enactment as relates to guaranteed minimum pensions (within the meaning of that Act).]

Textual Amendments

F70 Words in s. 66(2) inserted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(b) of the amending S.I.) by The Pensions Act 2004 and the Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) (Equal Treatment by Occupational Pension Schemes) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1308), reg. 3(3)(a)

F71 S. 66(5)(6) inserted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(b) of the amending S.I.) by The Pensions Act 2004 and the Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) (Equal Treatment by Occupational Pension Schemes) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1308), reg. 3(3)(b)

67 Sex equality rule E+W+S

(1) If an occupational pension scheme does not include a sex equality rule, it is to be treated as including one.

(2) [F72 Where this section applies by virtue of section 64(1),] a sex equality rule is a provision that has the following effect—

(a) if a relevant term is less favourable to A than it is to B, the term is modified so as not to be less favourable;

(b) if a term confers a relevant discretion capable of being exercised in a way that would be less favourable to A than to B, the term is modified so as to prevent the exercise of the discretion in that way.

[F73 (2A) Where this section applies by virtue of section 64(3), a sex equality rule is a provision that has the following effect—

(a) if, by virtue of the application of the guaranteed minimum pension provisions, a relevant term is less favourable to A than it would be if A were of the opposite sex, the term is modified so as not to be less favourable;

(b) if, by virtue of the application of those provisions, a term confers a relevant discretion capable of being exercised in a way that would be less favourable to A than it would be if A were of the opposite sex, the term is modified so as to prevent the exercise of the discretion in that way.

(2B) “Guaranteed minimum pension provisions” means so much of the Pension Schemes Act 1993 and of any other enactment as relates to guaranteed minimum pensions (within the meaning of that Act).]

(3) A term is relevant if it is—

(a) a term on which persons become members of the scheme, or

(b) a term on which members of the scheme are treated.

(4) A discretion is relevant if its exercise in relation to the scheme is capable of affecting—

(a) the way in which persons become members of the scheme, or

(b) the way in which members of the scheme are treated.

(5) The reference in subsection (3)(b) to a term on which members of a scheme are treated includes a reference to the term as it has effect for the benefit of dependants of members.

(6) The reference in subsection (4)(b) to the way in which members of a scheme are treated includes a reference to the way in which they are treated as the scheme has effect for the benefit of dependants of members.

[F74 (7) If the effect of a relevant matter on a person (A) differs according to the effect it has on a person of the same sex as A, according to whether A is married, in a civil partnership, or for some other reason due to A’s family status, a comparison for the purposes of this section of the effect of that matter on persons of the opposite sex must be with a person of the opposite sex to A who is in the same position as A and in particular—

(a) where A is married to[F75 , or the civil partner of,] someone of the opposite sex, A is to be compared to a person of the opposite sex to A (“B”) where B is married to[F76 or (as the case may be) the civil partner of] someone of the opposite sex to B;

[F77 (b) where A is married to, or the civil partner of, someone of the same sex, A is to be compared to B where B is married to or (as the case may be) the civil partner of someone of the same sex as B.]]

(8) A relevant matter is—

(a) a relevant term;

(b) a term conferring a relevant discretion;

(c) the exercise of a relevant discretion in relation to an occupational pension scheme.

(9) This section, so far as relating to the terms on which persons become members of an occupational pension scheme, does not have effect in relation to pensionable service before 8 April 1976.

(10) This section, so far as relating to the terms on which members of an occupational pension scheme are treated, does not have effect in relation to pensionable service before 17 May 1990.

Textual Amendments

F72 Words in s. 67(2) inserted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(b) of the amending S.I.) by The Pensions Act 2004 and the Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) (Equal Treatment by Occupational Pension Schemes) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1308), reg. 3(4)(a)

F73 S. 67(2A)(2B) inserted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(b) of the amending S.I.) by The Pensions Act 2004 and the Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) (Equal Treatment by Occupational Pension Schemes) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1308), reg. 3(4)(b)

F74 S. 67(7) substituted (16.12.2014) by The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014 and Civil Partnership Act 2004 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/3229), art. 1(2), Sch. 5 para. 19(2)

F75 Words in s. 67(7)(a) inserted (2.12.2019) by The Civil Partnership (Opposite-sex Couples) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/1458), reg. 1(2), Sch. 3 para. 32(3)(a)(i)

F76 Words in s. 67(7)(a) inserted (2.12.2019) by The Civil Partnership (Opposite-sex Couples) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/1458), reg. 1(2), Sch. 3 para. 32(3)(a)(ii)

F77 S. 67(7)(b) substituted (2.12.2019) by The Civil Partnership (Opposite-sex Couples) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/1458), reg. 1(2), Sch. 3 para. 32(3)(b)

68 Sex equality rule: consequential alteration of schemes E+W+S

(1) This section applies if the trustees or managers of an occupational pension scheme do not have power to make sex equality alterations to the scheme.

(2) This section also applies if the trustees or managers of an occupational pension scheme have power to make sex equality alterations to the scheme but the procedure for doing so—

(a) is liable to be unduly complex or protracted, or

(b) involves obtaining consents which cannot be obtained or which can be obtained only with undue delay or difficulty.

(3) The trustees or managers may by resolution make sex equality alterations to the scheme.

(4) Sex equality alterations may have effect in relation to a period before the date on which they are made.

(5) Sex equality alterations to an occupational pension scheme are such alterations to the scheme as may be required to secure conformity with a sex equality rule.

69 Defence of material factor E+W+S

(1) The sex equality clause in A's terms has no effect in relation to a difference between A's terms and B's terms if the responsible person shows that the difference is because of a material factor reliance on which—

(a) does not involve treating A less favourably because of A's sex than the responsible person treats B, and

(b) if the factor is within subsection (2), is a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.

(2) A factor is within this subsection if A shows that, as a result of the factor, A and persons of the same sex doing work equal to A's are put at a particular disadvantage when compared with persons of the opposite sex doing work equal to A's.

(3) For the purposes of subsection (1), the long-term objective of reducing inequality between men's and women's terms of work is always to be regarded as a legitimate aim.

(4) A sex equality rule has no effect in relation to a difference between A and B in the effect of a relevant matter if the trustees or managers of the scheme in question show that the difference is because of a material factor which is not the difference of sex.

(5) “Relevant matter” has the meaning given in section 67.

(6) For the purposes of this section, a factor is not material unless it is a material difference between A's case and B's.

70 Exclusion of sex discrimination provisions E+W+S

(1) The relevant sex discrimination provision has no effect in relation to a term of A's that—

(a) is modified by, or included by virtue of, a sex equality clause or rule, or

(b) would be so modified or included but for section 69 or Part 2 of Schedule 7.

(2) Neither of the following is sex discrimination for the purposes of the relevant sex discrimination provision—

(a) the inclusion in A's terms of a term that is less favourable as referred to in section 66(2)(a);

(b) the failure to include in A's terms a corresponding term as referred to in section 66(2)(b).

(3) The relevant sex discrimination provision is, in relation to work of a description given in the first column of the table, the provision referred to in the second column so far as relating to sex.

Description of work	Provision
Employment	Section 39(2)
Appointment to a personal office	Section 49(6)
Appointment to a public office	Section 50(6)

71 Sex discrimination in relation to contractual pay E+W+S

(1) This section applies in relation to a term of a person's work—

(a) that relates to pay, but

(b) in relation to which a sex equality clause or rule has no effect.

(2) The relevant sex discrimination provision (as defined by section 70) has no effect in relation to the term except in so far as treatment of the person amounts to a contravention of the provision by virtue of section 13 or 14.

Pregnancy and maternity equality E+W+S

72 Relevant types of work E+W+S

Sections 73 to 76 apply where a woman—

(a) is employed, or

(b) holds a personal or public office.

73 Maternity equality clause E+W+S

(1) If the terms of the woman's work do not (by whatever means) include a maternity equality clause, they are to be treated as including one.

(2) A maternity equality clause is a provision that, in relation to the terms of the woman's work, has the effect referred to in section 74(1), (6) and (8).

(3) In the case of a term relating to membership of or rights under an occupational pension scheme, a maternity equality clause has only such effect as a maternity equality rule would have.

74 Maternity equality clause: pay E+W+S

(1) A term of the woman's work that provides for maternity-related pay to be calculated by reference to her pay at a particular time is, if each of the following three conditions is satisfied, modified as mentioned in subsection (5).

(2) The first condition is that, after the time referred to in subsection (1) but before the end of the protected period—

(a) her pay increases, or

(b) it would have increased had she not been on maternity leave.

(3) The second condition is that the maternity-related pay is not—

(a) what her pay would have been had she not been on maternity leave, or

(b) the difference between the amount of statutory maternity pay to which she is entitled and what her pay would have been had she not been on maternity leave.

(4) The third condition is that the terms of her work do not provide for the maternity-related pay to be subject to—

(a) an increase as mentioned in subsection (2)(a), or

(b) an increase that would have occurred as mentioned in subsection (2)(b).

(5) The modification referred to in subsection (1) is a modification to provide for the maternity-related pay to be subject to—

(a) any increase as mentioned in subsection (2)(a), or

(b) any increase that would have occurred as mentioned in subsection (2)(b).

(6) A term of her work that—

(a) provides for pay within subsection (7), but

(b) does not provide for her to be given the pay in circumstances in which she would have been given it had she not been on maternity leave,

is modified so as to provide for her to be given it in circumstances in which it would normally be given.

(7) Pay is within this subsection if it is—

(a) pay (including pay by way of bonus) in respect of times before the woman is on maternity leave,

(b) pay by way of bonus in respect of times when she is on compulsory maternity leave, or

(c) pay by way of bonus in respect of times after the end of the protected period.

(8) A term of the woman's work that—

(a) provides for pay after the end of the protected period, but

(b) does not provide for it to be subject to an increase to which it would have been subject had she not been on maternity leave,

is modified so as to provide for it to be subject to the increase.

(9) Maternity-related pay is pay (other than statutory maternity pay) to which a woman is entitled—

(a) as a result of being pregnant, or

(b) in respect of times when she is on maternity leave.

(10) A reference to the protected period is to be construed in accordance with section 18.

75 Maternity equality rule E+W+S

(1) If an occupational pension scheme does not include a maternity equality rule, it is to be treated as including one.

(2) A maternity equality rule is a provision that has the effect set out in subsections (3) and (4).

(3) If a relevant term does not treat time when the woman is on maternity leave as it treats time when she is not, the term is modified so as to treat time when she is on maternity leave as time when she is not.

(4) If a term confers a relevant discretion capable of being exercised so that time when she is on maternity leave is treated differently from time when she is not, the term is modified so as not to allow the discretion to be exercised in that way.

(5) A term is relevant if it is—

(a) a term relating to membership of the scheme,

(b) a term relating to the accrual of rights under the scheme, or

(c) a term providing for the determination of the amount of a benefit payable under the scheme.

(6) A discretion is relevant if its exercise is capable of affecting—

(a) membership of the scheme,

(b) the accrual of rights under the scheme, or

(c) the determination of the amount of a benefit payable under the scheme.

(7) This section does not require the woman's contributions to the scheme in respect of time when she is on maternity leave to be determined otherwise than by reference to the amount she is paid in respect of that time.

(8) This section, so far as relating to time when she is on ordinary maternity leave but is not being paid by her employer, applies only in a case where the expected week of childbirth began on or after 6 April 2003.

(9) This section, so far as relating to time when she is on additional maternity leave but is not being paid by her employer—

(a) does not apply to the accrual of rights under the scheme in any case;

(b) applies for other purposes only in a case where the expected week of childbirth began on or after 5 October 2008.

(10) In this section—

(a) a reference to being on maternity leave includes a reference to having been on maternity leave, and

(b) a reference to being paid by the employer includes a reference to receiving statutory maternity pay from the employer.

76 Exclusion of pregnancy and maternity discrimination provisions E+W+S

(1) The relevant pregnancy and maternity discrimination provision has no effect in relation to a term of the woman's work that is modified by a maternity equality clause or rule.

[F78 (1A) The relevant pregnancy and maternity discrimination provision has no effect in relation to a term of the woman's work—

(a) that relates to pay, but

(b) in relation to which a maternity equality clause or rule has no effect.]

(2) The inclusion in the woman's terms of a term that requires modification by virtue of section 73(2) or (3) is not pregnancy and maternity discrimination for the purposes of the relevant pregnancy and maternity discrimination provision.

(3) The relevant pregnancy and maternity discrimination provision is, in relation to a description of work given in the first column of the table, the provision referred to in the second column so far as relating to pregnancy and maternity.

Description of work	Provision
Employment	Section 39(2)
Appointment to a personal office	Section 49(6)
Appointment to a public office	Section 50(6)

Textual Amendments

F78 S. 76(1A) inserted (30.10.2010) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/2622), art. 2

Disclosure of information E+W+S

77 Discussions about pay E+W+S

(1) A term of a person's work that purports to prevent or restrict the person (P) from disclosing or seeking to disclose information about the terms of P's work is unenforceable against P in so far as P makes or seeks to make a relevant pay disclosure.

(2) A term of a person's work that purports to prevent or restrict the person (P) from seeking disclosure of information from a colleague about the terms of the colleague's work is unenforceable against P in so far as P seeks a relevant pay disclosure from the colleague; and “colleague” includes a former colleague in relation to the work in question.

(3) A disclosure is a relevant pay disclosure if made for the purpose of enabling the person who makes it, or the person to whom it is made, to find out whether or to what extent there is, in relation to the work in question, a connection between pay and having (or not having) a particular protected characteristic.

(4) The following are to be treated as protected acts for the purposes of the relevant victimisation provision—

(a) seeking a disclosure that would be a relevant pay disclosure;

(b) making or seeking to make a relevant pay disclosure;

(c) receiving information disclosed in a relevant pay disclosure.

(5) The relevant victimisation provision is, in relation to a description of work specified in the first column of the table, section 27 so far as it applies for the purposes of a provision mentioned in the second column.

Description of work	Provision by virtue of which section 27 has effect
Employment	Section 39(3) or (4)
Appointment to a personal office	Section 49(5) or (8)
Appointment to a public office	Section 50(5) or (9)

78 Gender pay gap information E+W+S

(1) Regulations may require employers to publish information relating to the pay of employees for the purpose of showing whether, by reference to factors of such description as is prescribed, there are differences in the pay of male and female employees.

(2) This section does not apply to—

(a) an employer who has fewer than 250 employees;

(b) a person specified in Schedule 19;

(c) a government department or part of the armed forces not specified in that Schedule.

(3) The regulations may prescribe—

(a) descriptions of employer;

(b) descriptions of employee;

(c) how to calculate the number of employees that an employer has;

(d) descriptions of information;

(e) the time at which information is to be published;

(f) the form and manner in which it is to be published.

(4) Regulations under subsection (3)(e) may not require an employer, after the first publication of information, to publish information more frequently than at intervals of 12 months.

(5) The regulations may make provision for a failure to comply with the regulations—

(a) to be an offence punishable on summary conviction by a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale;

(b) to be enforced, otherwise than as an offence, by such means as are prescribed.

(6) The reference to a failure to comply with the regulations includes a reference to a failure by a person acting on behalf of an employer.

Commencement Information

I17 S. 78 in force at 22.8.2016 by S.I. 2016/839, art. 2

Supplementary E+W+S

79 Comparators E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of this Chapter.

(2) If A is employed, B is a comparator if subsection [F79 (3), (4), (4A) or (4B)] applies.

(3) This subsection applies if—

(a) B is employed by A's employer or by an associate of A's employer, and

(b) A and B work at the same establishment.

(4) This subsection applies if—

(a) B is employed by A's employer or an associate of A's employer,

(b) B works at an establishment other than the one at which A works, and

(c) common terms apply at the establishments (either generally or as between A and B).

[F80 (4A) This subsection applies if a single body—

(a) is responsible for setting or continuing the terms on which A and B are employed, and

(b) is in a position to ensure equal treatment between A and B in respect of such terms.

(4B) This subsection applies if the terms on which A and B are employed are governed by the same collective agreement.]

(5) If A holds a personal or public office, B is a comparator if—

(a) B holds a personal or public office, and

(b) the person responsible for paying A is also responsible for paying B.

(6) If A is a relevant member of the House of Commons staff, B is a comparator if—

(a) B is employed by the person who is A's employer under subsection (6) of section 195 of the Employment Rights Act 1996, or

(b) if subsection (7) of that section applies in A's case, B is employed by the person who is A's employer under that subsection.

(7) If A is a relevant member of the House of Lords staff, B is a comparator if B is also a relevant member of the House of Lords staff.

(8) Section 42 does not apply to this Chapter; accordingly, for the purposes of this Chapter only, holding the office of constable is to be treated as holding a personal office.

(9) For the purposes of this section, employers are associated if—

(a) one is a company of which the other (directly or indirectly) has control, or

(b) both are companies of which a third person (directly or indirectly) has control.

[F81 (10) In subsection (4B) “collective agreement” has the same meaning as in the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 (see section 178 of that Act).]

Textual Amendments

F79 Words in s. 79(2) substituted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 5(2)

F80 S. 79(4A)(4B) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 5(3)

F81 S. 79(10) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 5(4)

80 Interpretation and exceptions E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of this Chapter.

(2) The terms of a person's work are—

(a) if the person is employed, the terms of the person's employment that are in the person's contract of employment, contract of apprenticeship or contract to do work personally;

(b) if the person holds a personal or public office, the terms of the person's appointment to the office.

(3) If work is not done at an establishment, it is to be treated as done at the establishment with which it has the closest connection.

(4) A person (P) is the responsible person in relation to another person if—

(a) P is the other's employer;

(b) P is responsible for paying remuneration in respect of a personal or public office that the other holds.

(5) A job evaluation study is a study undertaken with a view to evaluating, in terms of the demands made on a person by reference to factors such as effort, skill and decision-making, the jobs to be done—

(a) by some or all of the workers in an undertaking or group of undertakings, or

(b) in the case of the armed forces, by some or all of the members of the armed forces.

(6) In the case of Crown employment, the reference in subsection (5)(a) to an undertaking is to be construed in accordance with section 191(4) of the Employment Rights Act 1996.

F82 (7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(8) Schedule 7 (exceptions) has effect.

Textual Amendments

F82 S. 80(7) omitted (13.3.2014) by virtue of The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 (Consequential and Contrary Provisions and Scotland) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/560), art. 1(2), Sch. 1 para. 35(3)

Commencement Information

I18 S. 80 wholly in force; s. 80 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 80(8) in force for certain purposes at 4.8.2010 by S.I. 2010/1966, art. 2; s. 80 in force at 1.10.2010 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(5)(e) (with art. 15)

Chapter 4 U.K. Supplementary

81 Ships and hovercraft E+W+S

(1) This Part applies in relation to—

(a) work on ships,

(b) work on hovercraft, and

(c) seafarers,

only in such circumstances as are prescribed.

(2) For the purposes of this section, it does not matter whether employment arises or work is carried out within or outside the United Kingdom.

(3) “Ship” has the same meaning as in the Merchant Shipping Act 1995.

(4) “Hovercraft” has the same meaning as in the Hovercraft Act 1968.

(5) “Seafarer” means a person employed or engaged in any capacity on board a ship or hovercraft.

(6) Nothing in this section affects the application of any other provision of this Act to conduct outside England and Wales or Scotland.

Commencement Information

I19 S. 81 wholly in force; s. 81 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 81 in force for certain purposes at 6.7.2010 by S.I. 2010/1736, art. 2, Sch.; s. 81 in force at 1.10.2010 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(5)(e) (with art. 15)

82 Offshore work U.K.

(1) Her Majesty may by Order in Council provide that in the case of persons in offshore work—

(a) specified provisions of this Part apply (with or without modification);

(b) Northern Ireland legislation making provision for purposes corresponding to any of the purposes of this Part applies (with or without modification).

(2) The Order may—

(a) provide for these provisions, as applied by the Order, to apply to individuals (whether or not British citizens) and bodies corporate (whether or not incorporated under the law of a part of the United Kingdom), whether or not such application affects activities outside the United Kingdom;

(b) make provision for conferring jurisdiction on a specified court or class of court or on employment tribunals in respect of offences, causes of action or other matters arising in connection with offshore work;

(c) exclude from the operation of section 3 of the Territorial Waters Jurisdiction Act 1878 (consents required for prosecutions) proceedings for offences under the provisions mentioned in subsection (1) in connection with offshore work;

(d) provide that such proceedings must not be brought without such consent as may be required by the Order.

(3) “Offshore work” is work for the purposes of—

(a) activities in the territorial sea adjacent to the United Kingdom,

(b) activities such as are mentioned in subsection (2) of section 11 of the Petroleum Act 1998 in waters within subsection (8)(b) or (c) of that section, or

(c) activities mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) of section 87(1) of the Energy Act 2004 in waters to which that section applies.

(4) Work includes employment, contract work, a position as a partner or as a member of an LLP, or an appointment to a personal or public office.

(5) Northern Ireland legislation includes an enactment contained in, or in an instrument under, an Act that forms part of the law of Northern Ireland.

(6) In the application to Northern Ireland of subsection (2)(b), the reference to employment tribunals is to be read as a reference to industrial tribunals.

(7) Nothing in this section affects the application of any other provision of this Act to conduct outside England and Wales or Scotland.

Commencement Information

I20 S. 82 wholly in force; s. 82 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 82 in force for certain purposes at 6.7.2010 by S.I. 2010/1736, art. 2, Sch.; s. 82 in force at 1.10.2010 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(5)(e) (with art. 15)

83 Interpretation and exceptions E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of this Part.

(2) “Employment” means—

(a) employment under a contract of employment, a contract of apprenticeship or a contract personally to do work;

(b) Crown employment;

(c) employment as a relevant member of the House of Commons staff;

(d) employment as a relevant member of the House of Lords staff.

(3) This Part applies to service in the armed forces as it applies to employment by a private person; and for that purpose—

(a) references to terms of employment, or to a contract of employment, are to be read as including references to terms of service;

(b) references to associated employers are to be ignored.

(4) A reference to an employer or an employee, or to employing or being employed, is (subject to section 212(11)) to be read with subsections (2) and (3); and a reference to an employer also includes a reference to a person who has no employees but is seeking to employ one or more other persons.

(5) “Relevant member of the House of Commons staff” has the meaning given in section 195 of the Employment Rights Act 1996; and such a member of staff is an employee of—

(a) the person who is the employer of that member under subsection (6) of that section, or

(b) if subsection (7) of that section applies in the case of that member, the person who is the employer of that member under that subsection.

(6) “Relevant member of the House of Lords staff” has the meaning given in section 194 of that Act (which provides that such a member of staff is an employee of the Corporate Officer of the House of Lords).

(7) In the case of a person in Crown employment, or in employment as a relevant member of the House of Commons staff, a reference to the person's dismissal is a reference to the termination of the person's employment.

(8) A reference to a personal or public office, or to an appointment to a personal or public office, is to be construed in accordance with section 52.

(9) “Crown employment” has the meaning given in section 191 of the Employment Rights Act 1996.

(10) Schedule 8 (reasonable adjustments) has effect.

(11) Schedule 9 (exceptions) has effect.

Commencement Information

I21 S. 83 wholly in force; s. 83 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 83(11) in force for certain purposes at 4.8.2010 by S.I. 2010/1966, art. 2; s. 83 in force at 1.10.2010 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(5)(e) (with art. 15)

Part 6 E+W+S Education

Chapter 1 E+W+S Schools

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C10 Pt. 6 Ch. 1: power to amend or repeal conferred (10.2.2012) by Education (Wales) Measure 2009 (nawm 5), s. 18(2)(c) (as amended by S.I. 2011/1651, art. 12(b)); S.I. 2012/320, art. 2(g)

84 Application of this Chapter E+W+S

This Chapter does not apply to the following protected characteristics—

(a) age;

(b) marriage and civil partnership.

85 Pupils: admission and treatment, etc. E+W+S

(1) The responsible body of a school to which this section applies must not discriminate against a person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding who is offered admission as a pupil;

(b) as to the terms on which it offers to admit the person as a pupil;

(c) by not admitting the person as a pupil.

(2) The responsible body of such a school must not discriminate against a pupil—

(a) in the way it provides education for the pupil;

(b) in the way it affords the pupil access to a benefit, facility or service;

(c) by not providing education for the pupil;

(d) by not affording the pupil access to a benefit, facility or service;

(e) by excluding the pupil from the school;

(f) by subjecting the pupil to any other detriment.

(3) The responsible body of such a school must not harass—

(a) a pupil;

(b) a person who has applied for admission as a pupil.

(4) The responsible body of such a school must not victimise a person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding who is offered admission as a pupil;

(b) as to the terms on which it offers to admit the person as a pupil;

(c) by not admitting the person as a pupil.

(5) The responsible body of such a school must not victimise a pupil—

(a) in the way it provides education for the pupil;

(b) in the way it affords the pupil access to a benefit, facility or service;

(c) by not providing education for the pupil;

(d) by not affording the pupil access to a benefit, facility or service;

(e) by excluding the pupil from the school;

(f) by subjecting the pupil to any other detriment.

(6) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to the responsible body of such a school.

(7) In relation to England and Wales, this section applies to—

(a) a school maintained by a local authority;

(b) an independent educational institution (other than a special school);

[F83 (ba) an alternative provision Academy that is not an independent educational institution;]

(c) a special school (not maintained by a local authority).

(8) In relation to Scotland, this section applies to—

(a) a school managed by an education authority;

(b) an independent school;

(c) a school in respect of which the managers are for the time being receiving grants under section 73(c) or (d) of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980.

(9) The responsible body of a school to which this section applies is—

(a) if the school is within subsection (7)(a), the local authority or governing body;

(b) if it is within subsection (7)(b) [F84 , (ba)] or (c), the proprietor;

(c) if it is within subsection (8)(a), the education authority;

(d) if it is within subsection (8)(b), the proprietor;

(e) if it is within subsection (8)(c), the managers.

(10) In the application of section 26 for the purposes of subsection (3), none of the following is a relevant protected characteristic—

(a) gender reassignment;

(b) religion or belief;

(c) sexual orientation.

Textual Amendments

F83 S. 85(7)(ba) inserted (E.W.) (1.4.2012) by The Alternative Provision Academies (Consequential Amendments to Acts) (England) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/976), arts. 1, 2, Sch. para. 25(a)

F84 Word in s. 85(9)(b) inserted (E.W.) (1.4.2012) by The Alternative Provision Academies (Consequential Amendments to Acts) (England) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/976), arts. 1, 2, Sch. para. 25(b)

86 Victimisation of pupils, etc. for conduct of parents, etc. E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of section 27 in its application to section 85(4) or (5).

(2) The references to B in paragraphs (a) and (b) of subsection (1) of section 27 include a reference to a parent or sibling of the child in question.

(3) Giving false evidence or information, or making a false allegation, in good faith is not a protected act in a case where—

(a) the evidence or information is given, or the allegation is made, by a parent or sibling of the child, and

(b) the child has acted in bad faith.

(4) Giving false evidence or information, or making a false allegation, in bad faith, is a protected act in a case where—

(a) the evidence or information is given, or the allegation is made, by a parent or sibling of the child, and

(b) the child has acted in good faith.

(5) In this section—

• “child” means a person who has not attained the age of 18;

• “sibling” means a brother or sister, a half-brother or half-sister, or a stepbrother or stepsister.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C11 S. 86(2)-(4) modified (W.) (1.9.2021) by The Equality Act 2010 (Capacity of parents and persons over compulsory school age) (Wales) Regulations 2021 (S.I. 2021/403), regs. 1(2), 5

87 [F85 Application of enforcement powers under education legislation] E+W+S

[F86 (A1) Subsections (1) and (2) do not apply in the case of a school in Wales.]

(1) Sections 496 and 497 of the Education Act 1996 (powers to give directions where responsible body of school in default of obligations, etc.) [F87 and section 70 of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980] apply to the performance of a duty under section 85.

(2) But neither of sections 496 and 497 of [F88 the Education Act 1996] applies to the performance of a duty under that section by the proprietor of an independent educational institution (other than a special school) [F89 or an alternative provision Academy that is not an independent educational institution][F90 ; and section 70 of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 does not apply to the performance of a duty under that section by the proprietor of an independent school].

[F91 (3) In the case of a school in Wales—

(a) Chapter 1 of Part 2 of the School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013 (“the 2013 Act”) (intervention in conduct of maintained schools) applies to the performance of a duty under section 85, but as if—

(i) the only relevant grounds for intervention were grounds 5 and 6 in section 2 of that Act, and

(ii) sections 3 to 9 and 12 to 16 of that Act did not apply;

(b) Chapter 2 of Part 2 of the 2013 Act (intervention in local authorities) applies to the performance of a duty under section 85, but as if—

(i) the only relevant grounds for intervention were grounds 1 and 2 in section 21 of that Act, and

(ii) sections 24 to 27 of that Act did not apply.

(4) But neither of Chapters 1 and 2 of Part 2 of the 2013 Act applies to the performance of a duty under section 85 by the proprietor of an independent educational institution (other than a special school).]

Textual Amendments

F85 S. 87 title substituted (1.10.2010) by virtue of The Equality Act 2010 (Consequential Amendments, Saving and Supplementary Provisions) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/2279), arts. 1(2), 3

F86 S. 87(A1) inserted (E.W.) (20.2.2014) by School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013 (anaw 1), s. 100(4), Sch. 5 para. 11(2); S.I. 2014/178, art. 2(f) (with art. 3)

F87 Words in s. 87(1) inserted (1.10.2010) by The Equality Act 2010 (Consequential Amendments, Saving and Supplementary Provisions) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/2279), arts. 1(2), 3(a)

F88 Words in s. 87(2) substituted (1.10.2010) by The Equality Act 2010 (Consequential Amendments, Saving and Supplementary Provisions) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/2279), arts. 1(2), 3(b)(i)

F89 Words in s. 87(2) inserted (E.W.) (1.4.2012) by The Alternative Provision Academies (Consequential Amendments to Acts) (England) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/976), arts. 1, 2, Sch. para. 26

F90 Words in s. 87(2) inserted (1.10.2010) by The Equality Act 2010 (Consequential Amendments, Saving and Supplementary Provisions) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/2279), arts. 1(2), 3(b)(ii)

F91 S. 87(3)(4) inserted (E.W.) (20.2.2014) by School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013 (anaw 1), s. 100(4), Sch. 5 para. 11(3); S.I. 2014/178, art. 2(f) (with art. 3)

88 Disabled pupils: accessibility E+W+S

Schedule 10 (accessibility) has effect.

89 Interpretation and exceptions E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of this Chapter.

(2) Nothing in this Chapter applies to anything done in connection with the content of the curriculum.

(3) “Pupil”—

(a) in relation to England and Wales, has the meaning given in section 3(1) of the Education Act 1996;

(b) in relation to Scotland, has the meaning given in section 135(1) of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980.

(4) “Proprietor”—

(a) in relation to a school in England and Wales, has the meaning given in section 579(1) of the Education Act 1996;

(b) in relation to a school in Scotland, has the meaning given in section 135(1) of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980.

(5) “School”—

(a) in relation to England and Wales, has the meaning given in section 4 of the Education Act 1996;

(b) in relation to Scotland, has the meaning given in section 135(1) of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980.

(6) A reference to a school includes a reference to an independent educational institution in England; and a reference to an independent educational institution in England is to be construed in accordance with Chapter 1 of Part 4 of the Education and Skills Act 2008.

(7) A reference to an independent educational institution is a reference to—

(a) an independent educational institution in England, or

(b) an independent school in Wales.

(8) “Independent school”—

(a) in relation to Wales, has the meaning given in section 463 of the Education Act 1996;

(b) in relation to Scotland, has the meaning given in section 135(1) of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980.

(9) “Special school” has the meaning given in section 337 of the Education Act 1996.

(10) “Local authority” means—

(a) in relation to England, an English local authority within the meaning of section 162 of the Education and Inspections Act 2006;

(b) in relation to Wales, a Welsh local authority within the meaning of that section.

(11) “Education authority”, in relation to Scotland, has the meaning given in section 135(1) of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980.

(12) Schedule 11 (exceptions) has effect.

Chapter 2 E+W+S Further and higher education

90 Application of this Chapter E+W+S

This Chapter does not apply to the protected characteristic of marriage and civil partnership.

91 Students: admission and treatment, etc. E+W+S

(1) The responsible body of an institution to which this section applies must not discriminate against a person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding who is offered admission as a student;

(b) as to the terms on which it offers to admit the person as a student;

(c) by not admitting the person as a student.

(2) The responsible body of such an institution must not discriminate against a student—

(a) in the way it provides education for the student;

(b) in the way it affords the student access to a benefit, facility or service;

(c) by not providing education for the student;

(d) by not affording the student access to a benefit, facility or service;

(e) by excluding the student;

(f) by subjecting the student to any other detriment.

(3) The responsible body of such an institution must not discriminate against a disabled person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding upon whom to confer a qualification;

(b) as to the terms on which it is prepared to confer a qualification on the person;

(c) by not conferring a qualification on the person;

(d) by withdrawing a qualification from the person or varying the terms on which the person holds it.

(4) Subsection (3) applies only to disability discrimination.

(5) The responsible body of such an institution must not harass—

(a) a student;

(b) a person who has applied for admission as a student;

(c) a disabled person who holds or has applied for a qualification conferred by the institution.

(6) The responsible body of such an institution must not victimise a person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding who is offered admission as a student;

(b) as to the terms on which it offers to admit the person as a student;

(c) by not admitting the person as a student.

(7) The responsible body of such an institution must not victimise a student—

(a) in the way it provides education for the student;

(b) in the way it affords the student access to a benefit, facility or service;

(c) by not providing education for the student;

(d) by not affording the student access to a benefit, facility or service;

(e) by excluding the student;

(f) by subjecting the student to any other detriment.

(8) The responsible body of such an institution must not victimise a disabled person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding upon whom to confer a qualification;

(b) as to the terms on which it is prepared to confer a qualification on the person;

(c) by not conferring a qualification on the person;

(d) by withdrawing a qualification from the person or varying the terms on which the person holds it.

(9) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to the responsible body of such an institution.

(10) In relation to England and Wales, this section applies to—

(a) a university;

(b) any other institution within the higher education sector;

(c) an institution within the further education sector.

[F92 (d) a 16 to 19 Academy.]

(11) In relation to Scotland, this section applies to—

(a) a university;

(b) a designated institution;

(c) a college of further education.

(12) A responsible body is—

(a) in the case of an institution within subsection (10)(a), (b) or (c), the governing body;

[F93 (aa) in the case of an institution within subsection (10)(d), the proprietor (within the meaning of the Education Act 1996);]

(b) in the case of an institution within subsection (11)(a) or (b), the governing body;

(c) in the case of a college of further education under the management of a board of management, the board of management;

(d) in the case of any other college of further education, any board of governors of the college or any person responsible for the management of the college, whether or not formally constituted as a governing body or board of governors.

Textual Amendments

F92 S. 91(10)(d) inserted (1.4.2012) by Education Act 2011 (c. 21), s. 54(1), Sch. 13 para. 20(2)(a); S.I. 2012/924, art. 2

F93 S. 91(12)(aa) inserted (1.4.2012) by Education Act 2011 (c. 21), s. 54(1), Sch. 13 para. 20(2)(b); S.I. 2012/924, art. 2

92 Further and higher education courses E+W+S

(1) The responsible body in relation to a course to which this section applies must not discriminate against a person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding who is enrolled on the course;

(b) as to the terms on which it offers to enrol the person on the course;

(c) by not accepting the person's application for enrolment.

(2) The responsible body in relation to such a course must not discriminate against a person who is enrolled on the course in the services it provides or offers to provide.

(3) The responsible body in relation to such a course must not harass a person who—

(a) seeks enrolment on the course;

(b) is enrolled on the course;

(c) is a user of services provided by the body in relation to the course.

(4) The responsible body in relation to such a course must not victimise a person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding who is enrolled on the course;

(b) as to the terms on which it offers to enrol the person on the course;

(c) by not accepting the person's application for enrolment.

(5) The responsible body in relation to such a course must not victimise a person who is enrolled on the course in the services it provides or offers to provide.

(6) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to the responsible body.

(7) This section applies to—

(a) a course of further or higher education secured by a responsible body in England or Wales;

(b) a course of education provided by the governing body of a maintained school under section 80 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998;

(c) a course of further education secured by an education authority in Scotland.

(8) A responsible body is—

(a) a local authority in England or Wales, for the purposes of subsection (7)(a);

(b) the governing body of a maintained school, for the purposes of subsection (7)(b);

(c) an education authority in Scotland, for the purposes of subsection (7)(c).

(9) In this section—

• “course”, in relation to further education, includes each component part of a course if there is no requirement imposed on persons registered for a component part of the course to register for another component part of the course;

• “enrolment” includes registration for a component part of a course;

• “maintained school” has the meaning given in section 20(7) of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998;

• “services” means services of any description which are provided wholly or mainly for persons enrolled on a course to which this section applies.

93 Recreational or training facilities E+W+S

(1) The responsible body in relation to facilities to which this section applies must not discriminate against a person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding who is provided with the facilities;

(b) as to the terms on which it offers to provide the facilities to the person;

(c) by not accepting the person's application for provision of the facilities.

(2) The responsible body in relation to such facilities must not discriminate against a person who is provided with the facilities in the services it provides or offers to provide.

(3) The responsible body in relation to such facilities must not harass a person who—

(a) seeks to have the facilities provided;

(b) is provided with the facilities;

(c) is a user of services provided by the body in relation to the facilities.

(4) The responsible body in relation to such facilities must not victimise a person—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for deciding who is provided with the facilities;

(b) as to the terms on which it offers to provide the facilities to the person;

(c) by not accepting the person's application for provision of the facilities.

(5) The responsible body in relation to such facilities must not victimise a person who is provided with the facilities in the services it provides or offers to provide.

(6) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to the responsible body.

(7) This section applies to—

(a) facilities secured by a local authority in England under section 507A or 507B of the Education Act 1996;

(b) facilities secured by a local authority in Wales under section 508 of that Act;

(c) recreational or training facilities provided by an education authority in Scotland.

(8) A responsible body is—

(a) a local authority in England, for the purposes of subsection (7)(a);

(b) a local authority in Wales, for the purposes of subsection (7)(b);

(c) an education authority in Scotland, for the purposes of subsection (7)(c).

(9) This section does not apply to the protected characteristic of age, so far as relating to persons who have not attained the age of 18.

94 Interpretation and exceptions E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of this Chapter.

(2) Nothing in this Chapter applies to anything done in connection with the content of the curriculum.

(3) A reference to a student, in relation to an institution, is a reference to a person for whom education is provided by the institution.

(4) A reference to a university includes a reference to a university college and a college, school or hall of a university.

(5) A reference to an institution within the further or higher education sector is to be construed in accordance with section 91 of the Further and Higher Education Act 1992.

(6) “Further education”—

(a) in relation to England and Wales, has the meaning given in section 2 of the Education Act 1996;

(b) in relation to Scotland, has the meaning given in section 1(3) of the Further and Higher Education (Scotland) Act 1992.

(7) “Higher education”—

(a) in relation to England and Wales, means education provided by means of a course of a description mentioned in Schedule 6 to the Education Reform Act 1988;

(b) in relation to Scotland, has the meaning given in section 38 of the Further and Higher Education (Scotland) Act 1992.

(8) “College of further education” has the meaning given in section 36 of the Further and Higher Education (Scotland) Act 1992.

(9) “Designated institution” has the meaning given in section 44 of that Act.

(10) “Local authority” means—

(a) in relation to England, an English local authority within the meaning of section 162 of the Education and Inspections Act 2006;

(b) in relation to Wales, a Welsh local authority within the meaning of that section.

(11) “Education authority” has the meaning given by section 135(1) of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980.

[F94 (11A) A reference to conferring a qualification includes a reference—

(a) to renewing or extending the conferment of a qualification;

(b) to authenticating a qualification conferred by another person.]

(12) Schedule 12 (exceptions) has effect.

Textual Amendments

F94 S. 94(11A) inserted (1.10.2010) by The Equality Act 2010 (Consequential Amendments, Saving and Supplementary Provisions) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/2279), arts. 1(2), 4

Commencement Information

I22 S. 94 wholly in force; s. 94 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 94(12) in force for certain purposes at 4.8.2010 by S.I. 2010/1966, art. 2; s. 94 in force at 1.10.2010 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(6)(b) (with art. 15)

Chapter 3 E+W+S General qualifications bodies

95 Application of this Chapter E+W+S

This Chapter does not apply to the protected characteristic of marriage and civil partnership.

96 Qualifications bodies E+W+S

(1) A qualifications body (A) must not discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding upon whom to confer a relevant qualification;

(b) as to the terms on which it is prepared to confer a relevant qualification on B;

(c) by not conferring a relevant qualification on B.

(2) A qualifications body (A) must not discriminate against a person (B) upon whom A has conferred a relevant qualification—

(a) by withdrawing the qualification from B;

(b) by varying the terms on which B holds the qualification;

(c) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(3) A qualifications body must not, in relation to conferment by it of a relevant qualification, harass—

(a) a person who holds the qualification, or

(b) a person who applies for it.

(4) A qualifications body (A) must not victimise a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding upon whom to confer a relevant qualification;

(b) as to the terms on which it is prepared to confer a relevant qualification on B;

(c) by not conferring a relevant qualification on B.

(5) A qualifications body (A) must not victimise a person (B) upon whom A has conferred a relevant qualification—

(a) by withdrawing the qualification from B;

(b) by varying the terms on which B holds the qualification;

(c) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(6) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to a qualifications body.

(7) Subsection (6) does not apply to the body in so far as the appropriate regulator specifies provisions, criteria or practices in relation to which the body—

(a) is not subject to a duty to make reasonable adjustments;

(b) is subject to a duty to make reasonable adjustments, but in relation to which such adjustments as the regulator specifies should not be made.

(8) For the purposes of subsection (7) the appropriate regulator must have regard to—

(a) the need to minimise the extent to which disabled persons are disadvantaged in attaining the qualification because of their disabilities;

(b) the need to secure that the qualification gives a reliable indication of the knowledge, skills and understanding of a person upon whom it is conferred;

(c) the need to maintain public confidence in the qualification.

(9) The appropriate regulator—

(a) must not specify any matter for the purposes of subsection (7) unless it has consulted such persons as it thinks appropriate;

(b) must publish matters so specified (including the date from which they are to have effect) in such manner as is prescribed.

(10) The appropriate regulator is—

(a) in relation to a qualifications body that confers qualifications in England, a person prescribed by a Minister of the Crown;

(b) in relation to a qualifications body that confers qualifications in Wales, a person prescribed by the Welsh Ministers;

(c) in relation to a qualifications body that confers qualifications in Scotland, a person prescribed by the Scottish Ministers.

(11) For the purposes of subsection (10), a qualification is conferred in a part of Great Britain if there are, or may reasonably be expected to be, persons seeking to obtain the qualification who are or will be assessed for those purposes wholly or mainly in that part.

Commencement Information

I23 S. 96 wholly in force; s. 96 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 96(10)(11) in force for certain purposes at 6.7.2010 by S.I. 2010/1736, art. 2, Sch.; s. 96(9)(b) in force for certain purposes at 3.9.2010 by S.I. 2010/2191, art. 2; s. 96 in force at 1.10.2010 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(6)(d) (with art. 15)

97 Interpretation E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of section 96.

(2) A qualifications body is an authority or body which can confer a relevant qualification.

(3) A relevant qualification is an authorisation, qualification, approval or certification of such description as may be prescribed—

(a) in relation to conferments in England, by a Minister of the Crown;

(b) in relation to conferments in Wales, by the Welsh Ministers;

(c) in relation to conferments in Scotland, by the Scottish Ministers.

(4) An authority or body is not a qualifications body in so far as—

(a) it is the responsible body of a school to which section 85 applies,

(b) it is the governing body of an institution to which section 91 applies,

(c) it exercises functions under the Education Acts, or

(d) it exercises functions under the Education (Scotland) Act 1980.

(5) A qualifications body does not include an authority or body of such description, or in such circumstances, as may be prescribed.

(6) A reference to conferring a relevant qualification includes a reference—

(a) to renewing or extending the conferment of a relevant qualification;

(b) to authenticating a relevant qualification conferred by another person.

(7) A reference in section 96(8), (10) or (11) to a qualification is a reference to a relevant qualification.

(8) Subsection (11) of section 96 applies for the purposes of subsection (3) of this section as it applies for the purposes of subsection (10) of that section.

Commencement Information

I24 S. 97 wholly in force; s. 97 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 97 in force for certain purposes at 6.7.2010 by S.I. 2010/1736, art. 2, Sch.; s. 97 in force at 1.10.2010 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(6)(d) (with art. 15)

Chapter 4 E+W+S Miscellaneous

98 Reasonable adjustments E+W+S

Schedule 13 (reasonable adjustments) has effect.

Commencement Information

I25 S. 98 wholly in force at 1.9.2012; s. 98 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 98 in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(6)(e); s. 99 in force so far as not already in force at 1.9.2012 by S.I. 2012/2184, art. 2(b)

99 Educational charities and endowments E+W+S

Schedule 14 (educational charities and endowments) has effect.

Part 7 U.K. Associations

Preliminary E+W+S

100 Application of this Part E+W+S

(1) This Part does not apply to the protected characteristic of marriage and civil partnership.

(2) This Part does not apply to discrimination, harassment or victimisation—

(a) that is prohibited by Part 3 (services and public functions), Part 4 (premises), Part 5 (work) or Part 6 (education), or

(b) that would be so prohibited but for an express exception.

Commencement Information

I26 S. 100 wholly in force at 1.10.2012; s. 100 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 100 in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(7)(a) (with art. 15); s. 100 in force so far as not already in force at 1.10.2012 by S.I. 2012/1569, art. 2(b)

Membership, etc. E+W+S

101 Members and associates E+W+S

(1) An association (A) must not discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding who to admit to membership;

(b) as to the terms on which A is prepared to admit B to membership;

(c) by not accepting B's application for membership.

(2) An association (A) must not discriminate against a member (B)—

(a) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to a benefit, facility or service;

(b) by depriving B of membership;

(c) by varying B's terms of membership;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(3) An association (A) must not discriminate against an associate (B)—

(a) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to a benefit, facility or service;

(b) by depriving B of B's rights as an associate;

(c) by varying B's rights as an associate;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(4) An association must not harass—

(a) a member;

(b) a person seeking to become a member;

(c) an associate.

(5) An association (A) must not victimise a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding who to admit to membership;

(b) as to the terms on which A is prepared to admit B to membership;

(c) by not accepting B's application for membership.

(6) An association (A) must not victimise a member (B)—

(a) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to a benefit, facility or service;

(b) by depriving B of membership;

(c) by varying B's terms of membership;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(7) An association (A) must not victimise an associate (B)—

(a) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to a benefit, facility or service;

(b) by depriving B of B's rights as an associate;

(c) by varying B's rights as an associate;

(d) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

Commencement Information

I27 S. 101 wholly in force at 1.10.2012; s. 101 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 101 in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(7)(a) (with art. 15); s. 101 in force so far as not already in force at 1.10.2012 by S.I. 2012/1569, art. 2(b)

102 Guests E+W+S

(1) An association (A) must not discriminate against a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding who to invite, or who to permit to be invited, as a guest;

(b) as to the terms on which A is prepared to invite B, or to permit B to be invited, as a guest;

(c) by not inviting B, or not permitting B to be invited, as a guest.

(2) An association (A) must not discriminate against a guest (B) invited by A or with A's permission (whether express or implied)—

(a) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to a benefit, facility or service;

(b) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

(3) An association must not harass—

(a) a guest;

(b) a person seeking to be a guest.

(4) An association (A) must not victimise a person (B)—

(a) in the arrangements A makes for deciding who to invite, or who to permit to be invited, as a guest;

(b) as to the terms on which A is prepared to invite B, or to permit B to be invited, as a guest;

(c) by not inviting B, or not permitting B to be invited, as a guest.

(5) An association (A) must not victimise a guest (B) invited by A or with A's permission (whether express or implied)—

(a) in the way A affords B access, or by not affording B access, to a benefit, facility or service;

(b) by subjecting B to any other detriment.

Commencement Information

I28 S. 102 wholly in force at 1.10.2012; s. 102 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 102 in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(7)(a) (with art. 15); s. 102 in force so far as not already in force at 1.10.2012 by S.I. 2012/1569, art. 2(b)

103 Sections 101 and 102: further provision E+W+S

(1) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to an association.

(2) In the application of section 26 for the purposes of section 101(4) or 102(3), neither of the following is a relevant protected characteristic—

(a) religion or belief;

(b) sexual orientation.

Commencement Information

I29 S. 103 wholly in force at 1.10.2012; s. 103 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 103 in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(7)(a) (with art. 15); s. 103 in force so far as not already in force at 1.10.2012 by S.I. 2012/1569, art. 2(b)

Special provision for political parties U.K.

104 Selection of candidates E+W+S

(1) This section applies to an association which is a registered political party.

(2) A person does not contravene this Part only by acting in accordance with selection arrangements.

(3) Selection arrangements are arrangements—

(a) which the party makes for regulating the selection of its candidates in a relevant election,

(b) the purpose of which is to reduce inequality in the party's representation in the body concerned, and

(c) which, subject to subsection (7), are a proportionate means of achieving that purpose.

(4) The reference in subsection (3)(b) to inequality in a party's representation in a body is a reference to inequality between—

(a) the number of the party's candidates elected to be members of the body who share a protected characteristic, and

(b) the number of the party's candidates so elected who do not share that characteristic.

(5) For the purposes of subsection (4), persons share the protected characteristic of disability if they are disabled persons (and section 6(3)(b) is accordingly to be ignored).

(6) Selection arrangements do not include short-listing only such persons as have a particular protected characteristic.

(7) But subsection (6) does not apply to the protected characteristic of sex; and subsection (3)(c) does not apply to short-listing in reliance on this subsection.

(8) The following elections are relevant elections—

(a) Parliamentary Elections;

F95 (b) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(c) elections to the Scottish Parliament;

(d) elections to the National Assembly for Wales;

(e) local government elections within the meaning of section 191, 203 or 204 of the Representation of the People Act 1983 (excluding elections for the Mayor of London).

Textual Amendments

F95 S. 104(8)(b) repealed (31.12.2020) by The European Parliamentary Elections Etc. (Repeal, Revocation, Amendment and Saving Provisions) (United Kingdom and Gibraltar) (EU Exit) Regulations 2018 (S.I. 2018/1310), reg. 1, Sch. 1 Pt. 1 (as amended by S.I. 2019/1389, regs. 1, 2(2))

Commencement Information

I30 S. 104 wholly in force at 1.10.2012; s. 104 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 104 in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(7)(a) (with art. 15); s. 104 in force so far as not already in force at 1.10.2012 by S.I. 2012/1569, art. 2(b)

105 Time-limited provision U.K.

(1) Section 104(7) and the words “, subject to subsection (7),” in section 104(3)(c) are repealed at the end of 2030 unless an order is made under subsection (2).

(2) At any time before the end of 2030, a Minister of the Crown may by order provide that subsection (1) is to have effect with the substitution of a later time for that for the time being specified there.

(3) In section 3 of the Sex Discrimination (Election Candidates) Act 2002 (expiry of that Act), in subsection (1) for “2015” substitute “ 2030 ”.

(4) The substitution made by subsection (3) does not affect the power to substitute a later time by order under section 3 of that Act.

Commencement Information

I31 S. 105 wholly in force at 1.10.2012; s. 105 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 105 in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(7)(a) (with art. 15); s. 105 in force so far as not already in force at 1.10.2012 by S.I. 2012/1569, art. 2(b)

Prospective

106 Information about diversity in range of candidates, etc. E+W+S

(1) This section applies to an association which is a registered political party.

(2) If the party had candidates at a relevant election, the party must, in accordance with regulations, publish information relating to protected characteristics of persons who come within a description prescribed in the regulations in accordance with subsection (3).

(3) One or more of the following descriptions may be prescribed for the purposes of subsection (2)—

(a) successful applicants for nomination as a candidate at the relevant election;

(b) unsuccessful applicants for nomination as a candidate at that election;

(c) candidates elected at that election;

(d) candidates who are not elected at that election.

(4) The duty imposed by subsection (2) applies only in so far as it is possible to publish information in a manner that ensures that no person to whom the information relates can be identified from that information.

(5) The following elections are relevant elections—

(a) Parliamentary Elections;

F96 (b) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(c) elections to the Scottish Parliament;

(d) elections to the National Assembly for Wales.

(6) This section does not apply to the following protected characteristics—

(a) marriage and civil partnership;

(b) pregnancy and maternity.

(7) The regulations may provide that the information to be published—

(a) must (subject to subsection (6)) relate to all protected characteristics or only to such as are prescribed;

(b) must include a statement, in respect of each protected characteristic to which the information relates, of the proportion that the number of persons who provided the information to the party bears to the number of persons who were asked to provide it.

(8) Regulations under this section may prescribe—

(a) descriptions of information;

(b) descriptions of political party to which the duty is to apply;

(c) the time at which information is to be published;

(d) the form and manner in which information is to be published;

(e) the period for which information is to be published.

(9) Provision by virtue of subsection (8)(b) may, in particular, provide that the duty imposed by subsection (2) does not apply to a party which had candidates in fewer constituencies in the election concerned than a prescribed number.

(10) Regulations under this section—

(a) may provide that the duty imposed by subsection (2) applies only to such relevant elections as are prescribed;

(b) may provide that a by-election or other election to fill a vacancy is not to be treated as a relevant election or is to be so treated only to a prescribed extent;

(c) may amend this section so as to provide for the duty imposed by subsection (2) to apply in the case of additional descriptions of election.

(11) Nothing in this section authorises a political party to require a person to provide information to it.

Textual Amendments

F96 S. 106(5)(b) repealed (31.12.2020) by The European Parliamentary Elections Etc. (Repeal, Revocation, Amendment and Saving Provisions) (United Kingdom and Gibraltar) (EU Exit) Regulations 2018 (S.I. 2018/1310), reg. 1, Sch. 1 Pt. 1 (as amended by S.I. 2019/1389, regs. 1, 2(2))

Supplementary E+W+S

107 Interpretation and exceptions E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of this Part.

(2) An “association” is an association of persons—

(a) which has at least 25 members, and

(b) admission to membership of which is regulated by the association's rules and involves a process of selection.

(3) A Minister of the Crown may by order amend subsection (2)(a) so as to substitute a different number for that for the time being specified there.

(4) It does not matter—

(a) whether an association is incorporated;

(b) whether its activities are carried on for profit.

(5) Membership is membership of any description; and a reference to a member is to be construed accordingly.

(6) A person is an “associate”, in relation to an association, if the person—

(a) is not a member of the association, but

(b) in accordance with the association's rules, has some or all of the rights as a member as a result of being a member of another association.

(7) A reference to a registered political party is a reference to a party registered in the Great Britain register under Part 2 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000.

(8) Schedule 15 (reasonable adjustments) has effect.

(9) Schedule 16 (exceptions) has effect.

Commencement Information

I32 S. 107 wholly in force at 1.10.2012; s. 107 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 107 in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(7)(b) (with art. 15); s. 107 in force so far as not already in force at 1.10.2012 by S.I. 2012/1569, art. 2(c)

Part 8 E+W+S Prohibited conduct: ancillary

108 Relationships that have ended E+W+S

(1) A person (A) must not discriminate against another (B) if—

(a) the discrimination arises out of and is closely connected to a relationship which used to exist between them, and

(b) conduct of a description constituting the discrimination would, if it occurred during the relationship, contravene this Act.

(2) A person (A) must not harass another (B) if—

(a) the harassment arises out of and is closely connected to a relationship which used to exist between them, and

(b) conduct of a description constituting the harassment would, if it occurred during the relationship, contravene this Act.

(3) It does not matter whether the relationship ends before or after the commencement of this section.

(4) A duty to make reasonable adjustments applies to A [F97 if B is] placed at a substantial disadvantage as mentioned in section 20.

(5) For the purposes of subsection (4), sections 20, 21 and 22 and the applicable Schedules are to be construed as if the relationship had not ended.

(6) For the purposes of Part 9 (enforcement), a contravention of this section relates to the Part of this Act that would have been contravened if the relationship had not ended.

(7) But conduct is not a contravention of this section in so far as it also amounts to victimisation of B by A.

Textual Amendments

F97 Words in s. 108(4) substituted (1.10.2010) by The Equality Act 2010 (Consequential Amendments, Saving and Supplementary Provisions) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/2279, arts. 1(2), 5

109 Liability of employers and principals E+W+S

(1) Anything done by a person (A) in the course of A's employment must be treated as also done by the employer.

(2) Anything done by an agent for a principal, with the authority of the principal, must be treated as also done by the principal.

(3) It does not matter whether that thing is done with the employer's or principal's knowledge or approval.

(4) In proceedings against A's employer (B) in respect of anything alleged to have been done by A in the course of A's employment it is a defence for B to show that B took all reasonable steps to prevent A—

(a) from doing that thing, or

(b) from doing anything of that description.

(5) This section does not apply to offences under this Act (other than offences under Part 12 (disabled persons: transport)).

110 Liability of employees and agents E+W+S

(1) A person (A) contravenes this section if—

(a) A is an employee or agent,

(b) A does something which, by virtue of section 109(1) or (2), is treated as having been done by A's employer or principal (as the case may be), and

(c) the doing of that thing by A amounts to a contravention of this Act by the employer or principal (as the case may be).

(2) It does not matter whether, in any proceedings, the employer is found not to have contravened this Act by virtue of section 109(4).

(3) A does not contravene this section if—

(a) A relies on a statement by the employer or principal that doing that thing is not a contravention of this Act, and

(b) it is reasonable for A to do so.

(4) A person (B) commits an offence if B knowingly or recklessly makes a statement mentioned in subsection (3)(a) which is false or misleading in a material respect.

(5) A person guilty of an offence under subsection (4) is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale.

[F98 (5A) A does not contravene this section if A—

(a) does not conduct a relevant marriage,

(b) is not present at, does not carry out, or does not otherwise participate in, a relevant marriage, or

(c) does not consent to a relevant marriage being conducted,

for the reason that the marriage is the marriage of a same sex couple.

(5B) Subsection (5A) applies to A only if A is within the meaning of “ person ” for the purposes of section 2 of the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013; and other expressions used in subsection (5A) and section 2 of that Act have the same meanings in that subsection as in that section. ]

[F99 (5BA) If A is a protected person, A does not contravene this section if A—

(a) does not allow religious premises to be used as the place at which two people register as civil partners of each other under Part 2 of the Civil Partnership Act 2004 (“the 2004 Act”), or

(b) does not provide, arrange, facilitate or participate in, or is not present at—

(i) an occasion during which two people register as civil partners of each other on religious premises under Part 2 of the 2004 Act, or

(ii) a ceremony or event in England or Wales to mark the formation of a civil partnership,

for the reason that the person does not wish to do things of that sort in relation to civil partnerships generally, or those between two people of the same sex, or those between two people of the opposite sex.

(5BB) In subsection (5BA)—

• “protected person” has the meaning given by section 30ZA(2) of the 2004 Act;

• “religious premises” has the meaning given by section 6A(3C) of the 2004 Act.]

[F100 (5C) A does not contravene this section by refusing to solemnise a relevant Scottish marriage for the reason that the marriage is the marriage of two persons of the same sex.

[F101 (5CA) A does not contravene this section by refusing to solemnise a relevant Scottish marriage for the reason that the marriage is the marriage of two persons of the opposite sex who are in a civil partnership with each other.]

(5D) A does not contravene this section by refusing to register a relevant Scottish civil partnership for the reason that [F102 A does not wish to register civil partnerships generally, or those between two persons of the same sex, or those between two persons of the opposite sex].

(5E) Subsections (5C)[F103 , (5CA)] and (5D) apply only if A is an approved celebrant.

(5F) Expressions used in subsections (5C) to (5E) have the same meaning as in paragraph 25B of Schedule 3.

(5G) A chaplain does not contravene this section by refusing to solemnise a relevant Scottish forces marriage for the reason that the marriage is the marriage of two persons of the same sex.

(5H) Expressions used in subsection (5G) have the same meaning as in paragraph 25C of Schedule 3.]

(6) Part 9 (enforcement) applies to a contravention of this section by A as if it were the contravention mentioned in subsection (1)(c).

(7) The reference in subsection (1)(c) to a contravention of this Act does not include a reference to disability discrimination in contravention of Chapter 1 of Part 6 (schools).

Textual Amendments

F98 S. 110(5A)(5B) inserted (13.3.2014) by Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 (c. 30), ss. 2(5), 21(3); S.I. 2014/93, art. 3(a)

F99 S. 110(5BA)(5BB) inserted (E.W.S.) (2.12.2019) by The Civil Partnership (Opposite-sex Couples) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/1458), regs. 1(2), 10(2)

F100 S. 110(5C)-(5H) inserted (16.12.2014) by The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014 and Civil Partnership Act 2004 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/3229), art. 1(2), Sch. 5 para. 19(4)

F101 S. 110(5CA) inserted (27.1.2022) by The Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2020 and Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014 (Consequential Modifications) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/74), art. 1, Sch. 1 para. 3(2)(a)

F102 Words in s. 110(5D) substituted (27.1.2022) by The Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2020 and Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014 (Consequential Modifications) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/74), art. 1, Sch. 1 para. 3(2)(b)

F103 Word in s. 110(5E) inserted (27.1.2022) by The Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2020 and Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014 (Consequential Modifications) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/74), art. 1, Sch. 1 para. 3(2)(c)

111 Instructing, causing or inducing contraventions E+W+S

(1) A person (A) must not instruct another (B) to do in relation to a third person (C) anything which contravenes Part 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 or section 108(1) or (2) or 112(1) (a basic contravention).

(2) A person (A) must not cause another (B) to do in relation to a third person (C) anything which is a basic contravention.

(3) A person (A) must not induce another (B) to do in relation to a third person (C) anything which is a basic contravention.

(4) For the purposes of subsection (3), inducement may be direct or indirect.

(5) Proceedings for a contravention of this section may be brought—

(a) by B, if B is subjected to a detriment as a result of A's conduct;

(b) by C, if C is subjected to a detriment as a result of A's conduct;

(c) by the Commission.

(6) For the purposes of subsection (5), it does not matter whether—

(a) the basic contravention occurs;

(b) any other proceedings are, or may be, brought in relation to A's conduct.

(7) This section does not apply unless the relationship between A and B is such that A is in a position to commit a basic contravention in relation to B.

(8) A reference in this section to causing or inducing a person to do something includes a reference to attempting to cause or induce the person to do it.

(9) For the purposes of Part 9 (enforcement), a contravention of this section is to be treated as relating—

(a) in a case within subsection (5)(a), to the Part of this Act which, because of the relationship between A and B, A is in a position to contravene in relation to B;

(b) in a case within subsection (5)(b), to the Part of this Act which, because of the relationship between B and C, B is in a position to contravene in relation to C.

112 Aiding contraventions E+W+S

(1) A person (A) must not knowingly help another (B) to do anything which contravenes Part 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 or section 108(1) or (2) or 111 (a basic contravention).

(2) It is not a contravention of subsection (1) if—

(a) A relies on a statement by B that the act for which the help is given does not contravene this Act, and

(b) it is reasonable for A to do so.

(3) B commits an offence if B knowingly or recklessly makes a statement mentioned in subsection (2)(a) which is false or misleading in a material respect.

(4) A person guilty of an offence under subsection (3) is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale.

(5) For the purposes of Part 9 (enforcement), a contravention of this section is to be treated as relating to the provision of this Act to which the basic contravention relates.

(6) The reference in subsection (1) to a basic contravention does not include a reference to disability discrimination in contravention of Chapter 1 of Part 6 (schools).

Part 9 E+W+S Enforcement

Chapter 1 E+W+S Introductory

113 Proceedings E+W+S

(1) Proceedings relating to a contravention of this Act must be brought in accordance with this Part.

(2) Subsection (1) does not apply to proceedings under Part 1 of the Equality Act 2006.

(3) Subsection (1) does not prevent—

(a) a claim for judicial review;

(b) proceedings under the Immigration Acts;

(c) proceedings under the Special Immigration Appeals Commission Act 1997;

(d) in Scotland, an application to the supervisory jurisdiction of the Court of Session.

(4) This section is subject to any express provision of this Act conferring jurisdiction on a court or tribunal.

(5) The reference to a contravention of this Act includes a reference to a breach of an equality clause or rule.

(6) Chapters 2 and 3 do not apply to proceedings relating to an equality clause or rule except in so far as Chapter 4 provides for that.

(7) This section does not apply to—

(a) proceedings for an offence under this Act;

(b) proceedings relating to a penalty under Part 12 (disabled persons: transport).

Commencement Information

I33 S. 113 wholly in force; s. 113 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 113 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(a) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

Chapter 2 E+W+S Civil courts

114 Jurisdiction E+W+S

(1) [F104 The county court] or, in Scotland, the sheriff has jurisdiction to determine a claim relating to—

(a) a contravention of Part 3 (services and public functions);

(b) a contravention of Part 4 (premises);

(c) a contravention of Part 6 (education);

(d) a contravention of Part 7 (associations);

(e) a contravention of section 108, 111 or 112 that relates to Part 3, 4, 6 or 7.

(2) Subsection (1)(a) does not apply to a claim within section 115.

(3) Subsection (1)(c) does not apply to a claim within section 116.

(4) Subsection (1)(d) does not apply to a contravention of section 106.

(5) For the purposes of proceedings on a claim within subsection (1)(a)—

(a) a decision in proceedings on a claim mentioned in section 115(1) that an act is a contravention of Part 3 is binding;

(b) it does not matter whether the act occurs outside the United Kingdom.

(6) The county court or sheriff—

(a) must not grant an interim injunction or interdict unless satisfied that no criminal matter would be prejudiced by doing so;

(b) must grant an application to stay or sist proceedings under subsection (1) on grounds of prejudice to a criminal matter unless satisfied the matter will not be prejudiced.

(7) In proceedings in England and Wales on a claim within subsection (1), the power under section 63(1) of the County Courts Act 1984 (appointment of assessors) must be exercised unless the judge is satisfied that there are good reasons for not doing so.

(8) In proceedings in Scotland on a claim within subsection (1), the power under rule 44.3 of Schedule 1 to the Sheriff Court (Scotland) Act 1907 (appointment of assessors) must be exercised unless the sheriff is satisfied that there are good reasons for not doing so.

(9) The remuneration of an assessor appointed by virtue of subsection (8) is to be at a rate determined by the Lord President of the Court of Session.

Textual Amendments

F104 Words in s. 114(1) substituted (22.4.2014) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 9 para. 52; S.I. 2014/954, art. 2(c) (with art. 3) (with transitional provisions and savings in S.I. 2014/956, arts. 3-11)

Commencement Information

I34 S. 114 wholly in force; s. 114 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 114 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(a) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

115 Immigration cases E+W+S

(1) A claim is within this section if it relates to the act of an immigration authority in taking a relevant decision and—

(a) the question whether the act is a contravention of Part 3 has been or could be raised on an appeal which is pending, or could be brought, under the immigration provisions, or

(b) it has been decided on an appeal under those provisions that the act is not a contravention of Part 3.

(2) The relevant decision is not—

(a) subject to challenge in proceedings on a claim within section 114(1)(a), or

(b) affected by the decision of a court in such proceedings.

(3) For the purposes of subsection (1)(a) a power to grant permission to appeal out of time must be ignored.

(4) Each of the following is an immigration authority—

(a) the Secretary of State;

(b) an immigration officer;

(c) a person responsible for the grant or refusal of entry clearance (within the meaning of section 33(1) of the Immigration Act 1971).

(5) The immigration provisions are—

(a) the Special Immigration Appeals Commission Act 1997, or

(b) Part 5 of the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002.

(6) A relevant decision is—

(a) a decision under the Immigration Acts relating to the entitlement of a person to enter or remain in the United Kingdom;

(b) a decision on an appeal under the immigration provisions relating to a decision within paragraph (a).

(7) An appeal is pending if it is pending for the purposes of section 104 of the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 or (as the case may be) for the purposes of that section as it is applied by section 2(2)(j) of the Special Immigration Appeals Commission Act 1997.

[F105 (8) This section applies in relation to reviews under [F106 section 2D, 2E or 2F] of the Special Immigration Appeals Commission Act 1997 as it applies in relation to appeals under the immigration provisions.]

Textual Amendments

F105 S. 115(8) inserted (25.6.2013) by Justice and Security Act 2013 (c. 18), s. 20(1), Sch. 2 para. 12; S.I. 2013/1482, art. 2 (with arts. 3, 4)

F106 Words in s. 115(8) substituted (28.6.2022) by Nationality and Borders Act 2022 (c. 36), ss. 87(1), 77(6); S.I. 2022/590, reg. 1(2), 2, Sch. 1 para. 27

Commencement Information

I35 S. 115 wholly in force; s. 115 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 115 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(a) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

116 Education cases E+W+S

(1) A claim is within this section if it may be made to—

(a) the First-tier Tribunal in accordance with Part 2 of Schedule 17,

(b) the [F107 Education Tribunal for Wales] in accordance with Part 2 of that Schedule, or

(c) [F108 the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland Health and Education Chamber] in accordance with Part 3 of that Schedule.

(2) A claim is also within this section if it must be made in accordance with appeal arrangements within the meaning of Part 4 of that Schedule.

(3) Schedule 17 (disabled pupils: enforcement) has effect.

Textual Amendments

F107 Words in s. 116(1)(b) substituted (E.W.) (1.9.2021) by Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018 (anaw 2), s. 100(3), Sch. 1 para. 19(2); S.I. 2021/373, art. 8(j)(xxxiii)

F108 Words in s. 116(1)(c) substituted (S.) (12.1.2018) by The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Transfer of Functions of the Additional Support Needs Tribunals for Scotland) Regulations 2018 (S.S.I. 2018/4), reg. 1(1), sch. 2 para. 4(2)

Commencement Information

I36 S. 116 wholly in force; s. 116 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 116(3) in force for certain purposes at 4.8.2010 by S.I. 2010/1966, art. 2; s. 116(1)(a)(b)(2) wholly in force and s. 116(1)(c)(3) in force for certain purposes at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(b)-(d) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7); s. 116(1)(c)(3) in force at 18.3.2011 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 3(a)(b) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

117 National security E+W+S

(1) Rules of court may, in relation to proceedings on a claim within section 114, confer power as mentioned in subsections (2) to (4); but a power so conferred is exercisable only if the court thinks it expedient to do so in the interests of national security.

(2) The rules may confer power to exclude from all or part of the proceedings—

(a) the claimant or pursuer;

(b) a representative of the claimant or pursuer;

(c) an assessor.

(3) The rules may confer power to permit a claimant, pursuer or representative who has been excluded to make a statement to the court before the commencement of the proceedings, or part of the proceedings, to which the exclusion relates.

(4) The rules may confer power to take steps to keep secret all or part of the reasons for the court's decision.

(5) The Attorney General or, in Scotland, the Advocate General for Scotland may appoint a person to represent the interests of a claimant or pursuer in, or in any part of, proceedings to which an exclusion by virtue of subsection (2)(a) or (b) relates.

(6) A person (P) may be appointed under subsection (5) only if—

(a) in relation to proceedings in England and Wales, P is a person who, for the purposes of the Legal Services Act 2007, is an authorised person in relation to an activity which constitutes the exercise of a right of audience or the conduct of litigation;

(b) in relation to proceedings in Scotland, P is an advocate or qualified to practice as a solicitor in Scotland.

(7) P is not responsible to the person whose interests P is appointed to represent.

Commencement Information

I37 S. 117 wholly in force; s. 117 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 117(1)-(4) in force for certain purposes at 6.7.2010 by S.I. 2010/1736, art. 2, Sch.; s. 117 in force at 1.10.2010 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(e) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

118 Time limits E+W+S

(1) [F109 Subject to [F110 [F111 section] 140AA]] proceedings on a claim within section 114 may not be brought after the end of—

(a) the period of 6 months starting with the date of the act to which the claim relates, or

(b) such other period as the county court or sheriff thinks just and equitable.

(2) If subsection (3) F112 ... applies, subsection (1)(a) has effect as if for “6 months” there were substituted “ 9 months ”.

(3) This subsection applies if—

(a) the claim relates to the act of a qualifying institution, and

(b) a complaint relating to the act is referred under the student complaints scheme before the end of the period of 6 months starting with the date of the act.

F113 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(5) If it has been decided under the immigration provisions that the act of an immigration authority in taking a relevant decision is a contravention of Part 3 (services and public functions), subsection (1) has effect as if for paragraph (a) there were substituted—

“(a) the period of 6 months starting with the day after the expiry of the period during which, as a result of section 114(2), proceedings could not be brought in reliance on section 114(1)(a);”.

(6) For the purposes of this section—

(a) conduct extending over a period is to be treated as done at the end of the period;

(b) failure to do something is to be treated as occurring when the person in question decided on it.

(7) In the absence of evidence to the contrary, a person (P) is to be taken to decide on failure to do something—

(a) when P does an act inconsistent with doing it, or

(b) if P does no inconsistent act, on the expiry of the period in which P might reasonably have been expected to do it.

(8) In this section—

• “immigration authority”, “immigration provisions” and “relevant decision” each have the meaning given in section 115;

• “qualifying institution” has the meaning given in section 11 of the Higher Education Act 2004[F114 , and includes an institution which is treated as continuing to be a qualifying institution for the purposes of Part 2 of that Act (see section 20A(2) of that Act)];

• “the student complaints scheme” means a scheme for the review of qualifying complaints (within the meaning of section 12 of that Act) that is provided by the designated operator (within the meaning of section 13(5)(b) of that Act).

Textual Amendments

F109 Words in s. 118(1) inserted (20.5.2011 with application as mentioned in regs. 3, 4 of the amending S.I.) by The Cross-Border Mediation (EU Directive) Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1133), reg. 55

F110 Words in s. 118(1) substituted (9.7.2015) by The Alternative Dispute Resolution for Consumer Disputes (Amendment) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/1392), regs. 1(2), 7(2) (with reg. 1(3))

F111 Word in s. 118(1) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Cross-Border Mediation (EU Directive) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/469), reg. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 17(2) (with reg. 5) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1493, regs. 1(1), 4(5)(6)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F112 Words in s. 118(2) omitted (25.6.2013) by virtue of Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), ss. 64(13)(a), 103(2)

F113 S. 118(4) omitted (25.6.2013) by virtue of Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), ss. 64(13)(b), 103(2)

F114 Words in s. 118(8) inserted (1.4.2018) by Higher Education and Research Act 2017 (c. 29), ss. 89(6), 124(5); S.I. 2018/241, reg. 2(l)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C12 S. 118(6) applied (1.10.2010) by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 4(3) (with art. 15)

Commencement Information

I38 S. 118 wholly in force; s. 118 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 118 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

119 Remedies E+W+S

(1) This section applies if [F115 the county court] or the sheriff finds that there has been a contravention of a provision referred to in section 114(1).

(2) The county court has power to grant any remedy which could be granted by the High Court—

(a) in proceedings in tort;

(b) on a claim for judicial review.

(3) The sheriff has power to make any order which could be made by the Court of Session—

(a) in proceedings for reparation;

(b) on a petition for judicial review.

(4) An award of damages may include compensation for injured feelings (whether or not it includes compensation on any other basis).

(5) Subsection (6) applies if the county court or sheriff—

(a) finds that a contravention of a provision referred to in section 114(1) is established by virtue of section 19 [F116 or 19A], but

(b) is satisfied that the provision, criterion or practice was not applied with the intention of discriminating against the claimant or pursuer.

(6) The county court or sheriff must not make an award of damages unless it first considers whether to make any other disposal.

(7) The county court or sheriff must not grant a remedy other than an award of damages or the making of a declaration unless satisfied that no criminal matter would be prejudiced by doing so.

Textual Amendments

F115 Words in s. 119(1) substituted (22.4.2014) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 9 para. 52; S.I. 2014/954, art. 2(c) (with art. 3) (with transitional provisions and savings in S.I. 2014/956, arts. 3-11)

F116 Words in s. 119(5)(a) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 3(5)

Commencement Information

I39 S. 119 wholly in force; s. 119 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 119 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

Chapter 3 E+W+S Employment tribunals

120 Jurisdiction E+W+S

(1) An employment tribunal has, subject to section 121, jurisdiction to determine a complaint relating to—

(a) a contravention of Part 5 (work);

(b) a contravention of section 108, 111 or 112 that relates to Part 5.

(2) An employment tribunal has jurisdiction to determine an application by a responsible person (as defined by section 61) for a declaration as to the rights of that person and a worker in relation to a dispute about the effect of a non-discrimination rule.

(3) An employment tribunal also has jurisdiction to determine an application by the trustees or managers of an occupational pension scheme for a declaration as to their rights and those of a member in relation to a dispute about the effect of a non-discrimination rule.

(4) An employment tribunal also has jurisdiction to determine a question that—

(a) relates to a non-discrimination rule, and

(b) is referred to the tribunal by virtue of section 122.

(5) In proceedings before an employment tribunal on a complaint relating to a breach of a non-discrimination rule, the employer—

(a) is to be treated as a party, and

(b) is accordingly entitled to appear and be heard.

(6) Nothing in this section affects such jurisdiction as the High Court, [F117 the county court], the Court of Session or the sheriff has in relation to a non-discrimination rule.

(7) Subsection (1)(a) does not apply to a contravention of section 53 in so far as the act complained of may, by virtue of an enactment, be subject to an appeal or proceedings in the nature of an appeal.

(8) In subsection (1), the references to Part 5 do not include a reference to section 60(1) [F118 or 60A(1)].

Textual Amendments

F117 Words in s. 120(6) substituted (22.4.2014) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 9 para. 52; S.I. 2014/954, art. 2(c) (with art. 3) (with transitional provisions and savings in S.I. 2014/956, arts. 3-11)

F118 Words in s. 120(8) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 4(5)

Commencement Information

I40 S. 120 wholly in force; s. 120 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 120 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

121 Armed forces cases E+W+S

(1) Section 120(1) does not apply to a complaint relating to an act done when the complainant was serving as a member of the armed forces unless—

(a) the complainant has made a service complaint about the matter, and

(b) the complaint has not been withdrawn.

[F119 (2) Where the complaint is dealt with by a person or panel appointed by the Defence Council by virtue of section 340C(1)(a) of the 2006 Act, it is to be treated for the purposes of subsection (1)(b) as withdrawn if—

(a) the period allowed in accordance with service complaints regulations for bringing an appeal against the person's or panel's decision expires, F120 ...

[F121 (aa) there are grounds (of which the complainant is aware) on which the complainant is entitled to bring such an appeal, and]

(b) either—

(i) the complainant does not apply to the Service Complaints Ombudsman for a review by virtue of section [F122 340D(6)(a)] of the 2006 Act (review of decision that appeal brought out of time cannot proceed), or

(ii) the complainant does apply for such a review and the Ombudsman decides that an appeal against the person's or panel's decision cannot be proceeded with.]

F123 (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F123 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(5) The making of a complaint to an employment tribunal in reliance on subsection (1) does not affect the continuation of [F124 the procedures set out in service complaints regulations. ]

[F125 (6) In this section—

• “the 2006 Act” means the Armed Forces Act 2006;

• “service complaints regulations” means regulations made under section 340B(1) of the 2006 Act.]

Textual Amendments

F119 S. 121(2) substituted (1.1.2016) by Armed Forces (Service Complaints and Financial Assistance) Act 2015 (c. 19), s. 7(1), Sch. para. 13(2); S.I. 2015/1957, reg. 2 (with savings and transitional provisions in S.I. 2015/1969)

F120 Word in s. 121(2)(a) omitted (1.5.2022 for specified purposes, 15.6.2022 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Armed Forces Act 2021 (c. 35), s. 24(1), Sch. 3 para. 8(a); S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(d); S.I. 2022/625, reg. 2

F121 S. 121(2)(aa) inserted (1.5.2022 for specified purposes, 15.6.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Armed Forces Act 2021 (c. 35), s. 24(1), Sch. 3 para. 8(b); S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(d); S.I. 2022/625, reg. 2

F122 Word in s. 121(2)(b)(i) substituted (1.5.2022 for specified purposes, 15.6.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Armed Forces Act 2021 (c. 35), s. 24(1), Sch. 3 para. 8(c); S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(d); S.I. 2022/625, reg. 2

F123 S. 121(3)(4) omitted (1.1.2016) by virtue of Armed Forces (Service Complaints and Financial Assistance) Act 2015 (c. 19), s. 7(1), Sch. para. 13(3); S.I. 2015/1957, reg. 2 (with savings and transitional provisions in S.I. 2015/1969)

F124 Words in s. 121(5) substituted (1.1.2016) by Armed Forces (Service Complaints and Financial Assistance) Act 2015 (c. 19), s. 7(1), Sch. para. 13(4); S.I. 2015/1957, reg. 2 (with savings and transitional provisions in S.I. 2015/1969)

F125 S. 121(6) inserted (1.1.2016) by Armed Forces (Service Complaints and Financial Assistance) Act 2015 (c. 19), s. 7(1), Sch. para. 13(5); S.I. 2015/1957, reg. 2 (with savings and transitional provisions in S.I. 2015/1969)

Commencement Information

I41 S. 121 wholly in force; s. 121 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 121 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

122 References by court to tribunal, etc. E+W+S

(1) If it appears to a court in which proceedings are pending that a claim or counter-claim relating to a non-discrimination rule could more conveniently be determined by an employment tribunal, the court may strike out the claim or counter-claim.

(2) If in proceedings before a court a question arises about a non-discrimination rule, the court may (whether or not on an application by a party to the proceedings)—

(a) refer the question, or direct that it be referred by a party to the proceedings, to an employment tribunal for determination, and

(b) stay or sist the proceedings in the meantime.

Commencement Information

I42 S. 122 wholly in force; s. 122 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 122 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

123 Time limits E+W+S

(1) [F126 Subject to [F127 [F128 section] 140B]] proceedings on a complaint within section 120 may not be brought after the end of—

(a) the period of 3 months starting with the date of the act to which the complaint relates, or

(b) such other period as the employment tribunal thinks just and equitable.

(2) Proceedings may not be brought in reliance on section 121(1) after the end of—

(a) the period of 6 months starting with the date of the act to which the proceedings relate, or

(b) such other period as the employment tribunal thinks just and equitable.

(3) For the purposes of this section—

(a) conduct extending over a period is to be treated as done at the end of the period;

(b) failure to do something is to be treated as occurring when the person in question decided on it.

(4) In the absence of evidence to the contrary, a person (P) is to be taken to decide on failure to do something—

(a) when P does an act inconsistent with doing it, or

(b) if P does no inconsistent act, on the expiry of the period in which P might reasonably have been expected to do it.

Textual Amendments

F126 Words in s. 123(1) inserted (20.5.2011 with application as mentioned in regs. 3, 4 of the amending S.I.) by The Cross-Border Mediation (EU Directive) Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1133), reg. 56

F127 Words in s. 123(1) substituted (6.4.2014) by Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), s. 103(3), Sch. 2 para. 43; S.I. 2014/253, art. 3(g)

F128 Word in s. 123(1) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Cross-Border Mediation (EU Directive) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/469), reg. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 17(3) (with reg. 5) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1493, regs. 1(1), 4(5)(6)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

Commencement Information

I43 S. 123 wholly in force; s. 123 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 123 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

124 Remedies: general E+W+S

(1) This section applies if an employment tribunal finds that there has been a contravention of a provision referred to in section 120(1).

(2) The tribunal may—

(a) make a declaration as to the rights of the complainant and the respondent in relation to the matters to which the proceedings relate;

(b) order the respondent to pay compensation to the complainant;

(c) make an appropriate recommendation.

(3) An appropriate recommendation is a recommendation that within a specified period the respondent takes specified steps for the purpose of obviating or reducing the adverse effect[F129 on the complainant ] of any matter to which the proceedings relate—

F130 (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F130 (b) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(4) Subsection (5) applies if the tribunal—

(a) finds that a contravention is established by virtue of section 19 [F131 or 19A], but

(b) is satisfied that the provision, criterion or practice was not applied with the intention of discriminating against the complainant.

(5) It must not make an order under subsection (2)(b) unless it first considers whether to act under subsection (2)(a) or (c).

(6) The amount of compensation which may be awarded under subsection (2)(b) corresponds to the amount which could be awarded by [F132 the county court] or the sheriff under section 119.

(7) If a respondent fails, without reasonable excuse, to comply with an appropriate recommendationF133 ..., the tribunal may—

(a) if an order was made under subsection (2)(b), increase the amount of compensation to be paid;

(b) if no such order was made, make one.

Textual Amendments

F129 Words in s. 124(3) inserted (1.10.2015) by Deregulation Act 2015 (c. 20), ss. 2(1)(a), 115(7); S.I. 2015/994, art. 11(a) (with Sch. Pt. 1)

F130 S. 124(3)(a)(b) omitted (1.10.2015) by virtue of Deregulation Act 2015 (c. 20), ss. 2(1)(b), 115(7); S.I. 2015/994, art. 11(a) (with Sch. Pt. 1)

F131 Words in s. 124(4)(a) inserted (1.1.2024) by The Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1425), regs. 1(2), 3(6)

F132 Words in s. 124(6) substituted (22.4.2014) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 9 para. 52; S.I. 2014/954, art. 2(c) (with art. 3) (with transitional provisions and savings in S.I. 2014/956, arts. 3-11)

F133 Words in s. 124(7) omitted (1.10.2015) by virtue of Deregulation Act 2015 (c. 20), ss. 2(2)(a), 115(7); S.I. 2015/994, art. 11(a) (with Sch. Pt. 1)

Commencement Information

I44 S. 124 wholly in force; s. 124 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 124 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

F134 125 Remedies: national security E+W+S

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F134 S. 125 omitted (1.10.2015) by virtue of Deregulation Act 2015 (c. 20), ss. 2(2)(b), 115(7); S.I. 2015/994, art. 11(a) (with Sch. Pt. 1)

Commencement Information

I45 S. 125 wholly in force; s. 125 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 125 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

126 Remedies: occupational pension schemes E+W+S

(1) This section applies if an employment tribunal finds that there has been a contravention of a provision referred to in section 120(1) in relation to—

(a) the terms on which persons become members of an occupational pension scheme, or

(b) the terms on which members of an occupational pension scheme are treated.

(2) In addition to anything which may be done by the tribunal under section 124 the tribunal may also by order declare—

(a) if the complaint relates to the terms on which persons become members of a scheme, that the complainant has a right to be admitted to the scheme;

(b) if the complaint relates to the terms on which members of the scheme are treated, that the complainant has a right to membership of the scheme without discrimination.

(3) The tribunal may not make an order under subsection (2)(b) of section 124 unless—

(a) the compensation is for injured feelings, or

(b) the order is made by virtue of subsection (7) of that section.

(4) An order under subsection (2)—

(a) may make provision as to the terms on which or the capacity in which the claimant is to enjoy the admission or membership;

(b) may have effect in relation to a period before the order is made.

Commencement Information

I46 S. 126 wholly in force; s. 126 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 126 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

Chapter 4 E+W+S Equality of terms

127 Jurisdiction E+W+S

(1) An employment tribunal has, subject to subsection (6), jurisdiction to determine a complaint relating to a breach of an equality clause or rule.

(2) The jurisdiction conferred by subsection (1) includes jurisdiction to determine a complaint arising out of a breach of an equality clause or rule; and a reference in this Chapter to a complaint relating to such a breach is to be read accordingly.

(3) An employment tribunal also has jurisdiction to determine an application by a responsible person for a declaration as to the rights of that person and a worker in relation to a dispute about the effect of an equality clause or rule.

(4) An employment tribunal also has jurisdiction to determine an application by the trustees or managers of an occupational pension scheme for a declaration as to their rights and those of a member in relation to a dispute about the effect of an equality rule.

(5) An employment tribunal also has jurisdiction to determine a question that—

(a) relates to an equality clause or rule, and

(b) is referred to the tribunal by virtue of section 128(2).

(6) This section does not apply to a complaint relating to an act done when the complainant was serving as a member of the armed forces unless—

(a) the complainant has made a service complaint about the matter, and

(b) the complaint has not been withdrawn.

(7) [F135 Subsections (2) to (6) ] of section 121 apply for the purposes of subsection (6) of this section as they apply for the purposes of subsection (1) of that section.

(8) In proceedings before an employment tribunal on a complaint relating to a breach of an equality rule, the employer—

(a) is to be treated as a party, and

(b) is accordingly entitled to appear and be heard.

(9) Nothing in this section affects such jurisdiction as the High Court, [F136 the county court], the Court of Session or the sheriff has in relation to an equality clause or rule.

Textual Amendments

F135 Words in s. 127(7) substituted (1.1.2016) by Armed Forces (Service Complaints and Financial Assistance) Act 2015 (c. 19), s. 7(1), Sch. para. 14; S.I. 2015/1957, reg. 2 (with savings and transitional provisions in S.I. 2015/1969)

F136 Words in s. 127(9) substituted (22.4.2014) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 9 para. 52; S.I. 2014/954, art. 2(c) (with art. 3) (with transitional provisions and savings in S.I. 2014/956, arts. 3-11)

Commencement Information

I47 S. 127 wholly in force; s. 127 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 127 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

128 References by court to tribunal, etc. E+W+S

(1) If it appears to a court in which proceedings are pending that a claim or counter-claim relating to an equality clause or rule could more conveniently be determined by an employment tribunal, the court may strike out the claim or counter-claim.

(2) If in proceedings before a court a question arises about an equality clause or rule, the court may (whether or not on an application by a party to the proceedings)—

(a) refer the question, or direct that it be referred by a party to the proceedings, to an employment tribunal for determination, and

(b) stay or sist the proceedings in the meantime.

Commencement Information

I48 S. 128 wholly in force; s. 128 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 128 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

129 Time limits E+W+S

(1) This section applies to—

(a) a complaint relating to a breach of an equality clause or rule;

(b) an application for a declaration referred to in section 127(3) or (4).

(2) Proceedings on the complaint or application may not be brought in an employment tribunal after the end of the qualifying period.

(3) If the complaint or application relates to terms of work other than terms of service in the armed forces, the qualifying period is, in a case mentioned in the first column of the table, the period mentioned in the second column [F137 , subject to [F138 [F139 section] 140B]].

Case	Qualifying period
A standard case	The period of 6 months beginning with the last day of the employment or appointment.
A stable work case (but not if it is also a concealment or incapacity case (or both))	The period of 6 months beginning with the day on which the stable working relationship ended.
A concealment case (but not if it is also an incapacity case)	The period of 6 months beginning with the day on which the worker discovered (or could with reasonable diligence have discovered) the qualifying fact.
An incapacity case (but not if it is also a concealment case)	The period of 6 months beginning with the day on which the worker ceased to have the incapacity.
A case which is a concealment case and an incapacity case.	The period of 6 months beginning with the later of the days on which the period would begin if the case were merely a concealment or incapacity case.

(4) If the complaint or application relates to terms of service in the armed forces, the qualifying period is, in a case mentioned in the first column of the table, the period mentioned in the second column[F140 , subject to section 140B].

Case	Qualifying period
A standard case	The period of 9 months beginning with the last day of the period of service during which the complaint arose.
A concealment case (but not if it is also an incapacity case)	The period of 9 months beginning with the day on which the worker discovered (or could with reasonable diligence have discovered) the qualifying fact.
An incapacity case (but not if it is also a concealment case)	The period of 9 months beginning with the day on which the worker ceased to have the incapacity.
A case which is a concealment case and an incapacity case.	The period of 9 months beginning with the later of the days on which the period would begin if the case were merely a concealment or incapacity case.

Textual Amendments

F137 Words in s. 129(3) inserted (20.5.2011 with application as mentioned in regs. 3, 4 of the amending S.I.) by The Cross-Border Mediation (EU Directive) Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1133), reg. 57

F138 Words in s. 129(3) substituted (6.4.2014) by Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), s. 103(3), Sch. 2 para. 44(a); S.I. 2014/253, art. 3(g)

F139 Word in s. 129(3) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Cross-Border Mediation (EU Directive) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/469), reg. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 17(4) (with reg. 5) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1493, regs. 1(1), 4(5)(6)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F140 Words in s. 129(4) inserted (6.4.2014) by Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), s. 103(3), Sch. 2 para. 44(b); S.I. 2014/253, art. 3(g)

Commencement Information

I49 S. 129 wholly in force; s. 129 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 129 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

130 Section 129: supplementary E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of section 129.

(2) A standard case is a case which is not—

(a) a stable work case,

(b) a concealment case,

(c) an incapacity case, or

(d) a concealment case and an incapacity case.

(3) A stable work case is a case where the proceedings relate to a period during which there was a stable working relationship between the worker and the responsible person (including any time after the terms of work had expired).

(4) A concealment case in proceedings relating to an equality clause is a case where—

(a) the responsible person deliberately concealed a qualifying fact from the worker, and

(b) the worker did not discover (or could not with reasonable diligence have discovered) the qualifying fact until after the relevant day.

(5) A concealment case in proceedings relating to an equality rule is a case where—

(a) the employer or the trustees or managers of the occupational pension scheme in question deliberately concealed a qualifying fact from the member, and

(b) the member did not discover (or could not with reasonable diligence have discovered) the qualifying fact until after the relevant day.

(6) A qualifying fact for the purposes of subsection (4) or (5) is a fact—

(a) which is relevant to the complaint, and

(b) without knowledge of which the worker or member could not reasonably have been expected to bring the proceedings.

(7) An incapacity case in proceedings relating to an equality clause with respect to terms of work other than terms of service in the armed forces is a case where the worker had an incapacity during the period of 6 months beginning with the later of—

(a) the relevant day, or

(b) the day on which the worker discovered (or could with reasonable diligence have discovered) the qualifying fact deliberately concealed from the worker by the responsible person.

(8) An incapacity case in proceedings relating to an equality clause with respect to terms of service in the armed forces is a case where the worker had an incapacity during the period of 9 months beginning with the later of—

(a) the last day of the period of service during which the complaint arose, or

(b) the day on which the worker discovered (or could with reasonable diligence have discovered) the qualifying fact deliberately concealed from the worker by the responsible person.

(9) An incapacity case in proceedings relating to an equality rule is a case where the member of the occupational pension scheme in question had an incapacity during the period of 6 months beginning with the later of—

(a) the relevant day, or

(b) the day on which the member discovered (or could with reasonable diligence have discovered) the qualifying fact deliberately concealed from the member by the employer or the trustees or managers of the scheme.

(10) The relevant day for the purposes of this section is—

(a) the last day of the employment or appointment, or

(b) the day on which the stable working relationship between the worker and the responsible person ended.

Commencement Information

I50 S. 130 wholly in force; s. 130 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 130 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

131 Assessment of whether work is of equal value E+W+S

(1) This section applies to proceedings before an employment tribunal on—

(a) a complaint relating to a breach of an equality clause or rule, or

(b) a question referred to the tribunal by virtue of section 128(2).

(2) Where a question arises in the proceedings as to whether one person's work is of equal value to another's, the tribunal may, before determining the question, require a member of the panel of independent experts to prepare a report on the question.

(3) The tribunal may withdraw a requirement that it makes under subsection (2); and, if it does so, it may—

(a) request the panel member to provide it with specified documentation;

(b) make such other requests to that member as are connected with the withdrawal of the requirement.

(4) If the tribunal requires the preparation of a report under subsection (2) (and does not withdraw the requirement), it must not determine the question unless it has received the report.

(5) Subsection (6) applies where—

(a) a question arises in the proceedings as to whether the work of one person (A) is of equal value to the work of another (B), and

(b) A's work and B's work have been given different values by a job evaluation study.

(6) The tribunal must determine that A's work is not of equal value to B's work unless it has reasonable grounds for suspecting that the evaluation contained in the study—

(a) was based on a system that discriminates because of sex, or

(b) is otherwise unreliable.

(7) For the purposes of subsection (6)(a), a system discriminates because of sex if a difference (or coincidence) between values that the system sets on different demands is not justifiable regardless of the sex of the person on whom the demands are made.

(8) A reference to a member of the panel of independent experts is a reference to a person—

(a) who is for the time being designated as such by the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) for the purposes of this section, and

(b) who is neither a member of the Council of ACAS nor one of its officers or members of staff.

(9) “Job evaluation study” has the meaning given in section 80(5).

Commencement Information

I51 S. 131 wholly in force; s. 131 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 131 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

132 Remedies in non-pensions cases E+W+S

(1) This section applies to proceedings before a court or employment tribunal on a complaint relating to a breach of an equality clause, other than a breach with respect to membership of or rights under an occupational pension scheme.

(2) If the court or tribunal finds that there has been a breach of the equality clause, it may—

(a) make a declaration as to the rights of the parties in relation to the matters to which the proceedings relate;

(b) order an award by way of arrears of pay or damages in relation to the complainant.

(3) The court or tribunal may not order a payment under subsection (2)(b) in respect of a time before the arrears day.

(4) In relation to proceedings in England and Wales, the arrears day is, in a case mentioned in the first column of the table, the day mentioned in the second column.

Case	Arrears day
A standard case	The day falling 6 years before the day on which the proceedings were instituted.
A concealment case or an incapacity case (or a case which is both).	The day on which the breach first occurred.

(5) In relation to proceedings in Scotland, the arrears day is the first day of—

(a) the period of 5 years ending with the day on which the proceedings were commenced, or

(b) if the case involves a relevant incapacity, or a relevant fraud or error, [F141 the period determined in accordance with section 135(6) and (7)].

Textual Amendments

F141 Words in s. 132(5)(b) substituted (1.10.2010) by The Equality Act 2010 (Consequential Amendments, Saving and Supplementary Provisions) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/2279), arts. 1(2), 6

Commencement Information

I52 S. 132 wholly in force; s. 132 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 132 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

133 Remedies in pensions cases E+W+S

(1) This section applies to proceedings before a court or employment tribunal on a complaint relating to—

(a) a breach of an equality rule, or

(b) a breach of an equality clause with respect to membership of, or rights under, an occupational pension scheme.

(2) If the court or tribunal finds that there has been a breach as referred to in subsection (1)—

(a) it may make a declaration as to the rights of the parties in relation to the matters to which the proceedings relate;

(b) it must not order arrears of benefits or damages or any other amount to be paid to the complainant.

(3) Subsection (2)(b) does not apply if the proceedings are proceedings to which section 134 applies.

(4) If the breach relates to a term on which persons become members of the scheme, the court or tribunal may declare that the complainant is entitled to be admitted to the scheme with effect from a specified date.

(5) A date specified for the purposes of subsection (4) must not be before 8 April 1976.

(6) If the breach relates to a term on which members of the scheme are treated, the court or tribunal may declare that the complainant is, in respect of a specified period, entitled to secure the rights that would have accrued if the breach had not occurred.

(7) A period specified for the purposes of subsection (6) must not begin before 17 May 1990.

(8) If the court or tribunal makes a declaration under subsection (6), the employer must provide such resources to the scheme as are necessary to secure for the complainant (without contribution or further contribution by the complainant or other members) the rights referred to in that subsection.

Commencement Information

I53 S. 133 wholly in force; s. 133 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 133 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

134 Remedies in claims for arrears brought by pensioner members E+W+S

(1) This section applies to proceedings before a court or employment tribunal on a complaint by a pensioner member of an occupational pension scheme relating to a breach of an equality clause or rule with respect to a term on which the member is treated.

(2) If the court or tribunal finds that there has been a breach referred to in subsection (1), it may—

(a) make a declaration as to the rights of the complainant and the respondent in relation to the matters to which the proceedings relate;

(b) order an award by way of arrears of benefits or damages or of any other amount in relation to the complainant.

(3) The court or tribunal must not order an award under subsection (2)(b) in respect of a time before the arrears day.

(4) If the court or tribunal orders an award under subsection (2)(b), the employer must provide such resources to the scheme as are necessary to secure for the complainant (without contribution or further contribution by the complainant or other members) the amount of the award.

(5) In relation to proceedings in England and Wales, the arrears day is, in a case mentioned in the first column of the table, the day mentioned in the second column.

Case	Arrears day
A standard case	The day falling 6 years before the day on which the proceedings were commenced.
A concealment case or an incapacity case (or a case which is both).	The day on which the breach first occurred.

(6) In relation to proceedings in Scotland, the arrears day is the first day of—

(a) the period of 5 years ending with the day on which the proceedings were commenced, or

(b) if the case involves a relevant incapacity, or a relevant fraud or error, [F142 the period determined in accordance with section 135(6) and (7)].

Textual Amendments

F142 Words in s. 134(6)(b) substituted (1.10.2010) by The Equality Act 2010 (Consequential Amendments, Saving and Supplementary Provisions) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/2279), arts. 1(2), 6

Commencement Information

I54 S. 134 wholly in force; s. 134 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 134 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

135 Supplementary E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of sections 132 to 134.

(2) A standard case is a case which is not—

(a) a concealment case,

(b) an incapacity case, or

(c) a concealment case and an incapacity case.

(3) A concealment case in relation to an equality clause is a case where—

(a) the responsible person deliberately concealed a qualifying fact (as defined by section 130) from the worker, and

(b) the worker commenced the proceedings before the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the day on which the worker discovered (or could with reasonable diligence have discovered) the qualifying fact.

(4) A concealment case in relation to an equality rule is a case where—

(a) the employer or the trustees or managers of the occupational pension scheme in question deliberately concealed a qualifying fact (as defined by section 130) from the member, and

(b) the member commenced the proceedings before the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the day on which the member discovered (or could with reasonable diligence have discovered) the qualifying fact.

(5) An incapacity case is a case where the worker or member—

(a) had an incapacity when the breach first occurred, and

(b) commenced the proceedings before the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the day on which the worker or member ceased to have the incapacity.

(6) A case involves a relevant incapacity or a relevant fraud or error if the period of 5 years referred to in section 132(5)(a) [F143 or 134(6)(a)] is, as a result of subsection (7) below, reckoned as a period of more than [F144 5 years; and—

(a) if, as a result of subsection (7), that period is reckoned as a period of more than 5 years but no more than 20 years, the period for the purposes of section 132(5)(b) or (as the case may be) section 134(6)(b) is that extended period;

(b) if, as a result of subsection (7), that period is reckoned as a period of more than 20 years, the period for the purposes of section 132(5)(b) or (as the case may be) section 134(6)(b) is a period of 20 years.]

(7) For the purposes of the reckoning referred to in subsection (6), no account is to be taken of time when the worker or member—

(a) had an incapacity, or

(b) was induced by a relevant fraud or error to refrain from commencing proceedings (not being a time after the worker or member could with reasonable diligence have discovered the fraud or error).

(8) For the purposes of subsection (7)—

(a) a fraud is relevant in relation to an equality clause if it is a fraud on the part of the responsible person;

(b) an error is relevant in relation to an equality clause if it is induced by the words or conduct of the responsible person;

(c) a fraud is relevant in relation to an equality rule if it is a fraud on the part of the employer or the trustees or managers of the scheme;

(d) an error is relevant in relation to an equality rule if it is induced by the words or conduct of the employer or the trustees or managers of the scheme.

(9) A reference in subsection (8) to the responsible person, the employer or the trustees or managers includes a reference to a person acting on behalf of the person or persons concerned.

(10) In relation to terms of service, a reference in section 132(5) or subsection (3) or (5)(b) of this section to commencing proceedings is to be read as a reference to making a service complaint.

(11) A reference to a pensioner member of a scheme includes a reference to a person who is entitled to the present payment of pension or other benefits derived through a member.

(12) In relation to proceedings before a court—

(a) a reference to a complaint is to be read as a reference to a claim, and

(b) a reference to a complainant is to be read as a reference to a claimant.

Textual Amendments

F143 Words in s. 135(6) inserted (1.10.2010) by The Equality Act 2010 (Consequential Amendments, Saving and Supplementary Provisions) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/2279), arts. 1(2), 7(a)

F144 Words in s. 135(6) substituted (1.10.2010) by The Equality Act 2010 (Consequential Amendments, Saving and Supplementary Provisions) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/2279), arts. 1(2), 7(b)

Commencement Information

I55 S. 135 wholly in force; s. 135 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 135 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(f) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

Chapter 5 E+W+S Miscellaneous

136 Burden of proof E+W+S

(1) This section applies to any proceedings relating to a contravention of this Act.

(2) If there are facts from which the court could decide, in the absence of any other explanation, that a person (A) contravened the provision concerned, the court must hold that the contravention occurred.

(3) But subsection (2) does not apply if A shows that A did not contravene the provision.

(4) The reference to a contravention of this Act includes a reference to a breach of an equality clause or rule.

(5) This section does not apply to proceedings for an offence under this Act.

(6) A reference to the court includes a reference to—

(a) an employment tribunal;

(b) the Asylum and Immigration Tribunal;

(c) the Special Immigration Appeals Commission;

(d) the First-tier Tribunal;

(e) the [F145 Education Tribunal for Wales];

(f) [F146 the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland Health and Education Chamber] .

Textual Amendments

F145 Words in s. 136(6)(e) substituted (E.W.) (1.9.2021) by Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018 (anaw 2), s. 100(3), Sch. 1 para. 19(3); S.I. 2021/373, art. 8(j)(xxxiii)

F146 Words in s. 136(6)(f) substituted (S.) (12.1.2018) by The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Transfer of Functions of the Additional Support Needs Tribunals for Scotland) Regulations 2018 (S.S.I. 2018/4), reg. 1(1), sch. 2 para. 4(3)

Commencement Information

I56 S. 136 wholly in force; s. 136 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 136(1)-(5)(6)(a)-(e) in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(g) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7); s. 136(6)(f) in force at 18.3.2011 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 3(c) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

137 Previous findings E+W+S

(1) A finding in relevant proceedings in respect of an act which has become final is to be treated as conclusive in proceedings under this Act.

(2) Relevant proceedings are proceedings before a court or employment tribunal under any of the following—

(a) section 19 or 20 of the Race Relations Act 1968;

(b) the Equal Pay Act 1970;

(c) the Sex Discrimination Act 1975;

(d) the Race Relations Act 1976;

(e) section 6(4A) of the Sex Discrimination Act 1986;

(f) the Disability Discrimination Act 1995;

(g) Part 2 of the Equality Act 2006;

(h) the Employment Equality (Religion and Belief) Regulations 2003 (S.I. 2003/1660);

(i) the Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations 2003 (S.I. 2003/1661);

(j) the Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/1031);

(k) the Equality Act (Sexual Orientation) Regulations 2007 (S.I. 2007/1263).

(3) A finding becomes final—

(a) when an appeal against the finding is dismissed, withdrawn or abandoned, or

(b) when the time for appealing expires without an appeal having been brought.

Commencement Information

I57 S. 137 wholly in force; s. 137 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 137 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(h) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

F147 138 Obtaining information, etc. E+W+S

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F147 S. 138 omitted (6.4.2014) by virtue of Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), ss. 66(1), 103(3) (with s. 66(2)); S.I. 2014/416, art. 3(c)

139 Interest E+W+S

(1) Regulations may make provision—

(a) for enabling an employment tribunal to include interest on an amount awarded by it in proceedings under this Act;

(b) specifying the manner in which, and the periods and rate by reference to which, the interest is to be determined.

(2) Regulations may modify the operation of an order made under section 14 of the Employment Tribunals Act 1996 (power to make provision as to interest on awards) in so far as it relates to an award in proceedings under this Act.

Commencement Information

I58 S. 139 wholly in force; s. 139 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 139 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(j) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

[F148 139A Equal pay audits E+W+S

(1) Regulations may make provision requiring an employment tribunal to order the respondent to carry out an equal pay audit in any case where the tribunal finds that there has been an equal pay breach.

(2) An equal pay breach is—

(a) a breach of an equality clause, or

(b) a contravention in relation to pay of section 39(2), 49(6) or 50(6), so far as relating to sex discrimination.

(3) An equal pay audit is an audit designed to identify action to be taken to avoid equal pay breaches occurring or continuing.

(4) The regulations may make further provision about equal pay audits, including provision about—

(a) the content of an audit;

(b) the powers and duties of a tribunal for deciding whether its order has been complied with;

(c) any circumstances in which an audit may be required to be published or may be disclosed to any person.

(5) The regulations must provide for an equal pay audit not to be ordered where the tribunal considers that—

(a) an audit completed by the respondent in the previous 3 years meets requirements prescribed for this purpose,

(b) it is clear without an audit whether any action is required to avoid equal pay breaches occurring or continuing,

(c) the breach the tribunal has found gives no reason to think that there may be other breaches, or

(d) the disadvantages of an equal pay audit would outweigh its benefits.

(6) The regulations may provide for an employment tribunal to have power, where a person fails to comply with an order to carry out an equal pay audit, to order that person to pay a penalty to the Secretary of State of not more than an amount specified in the regulations.

(7) The regulations may provide for that power—

(a) to be exercisable in prescribed circumstances;

(b) to be exercisable more than once, if the failure to comply continues.

(8) The first regulations made by virtue of subsection (6) must not specify an amount of more than £5,000.

(9) Sums received by the Secretary of State under the regulations must be paid into the Consolidated Fund.

(10) The first regulations under this section must specify an exemption period during which the requirement to order an equal pay audit does not apply in the case of a business that—

(a) had fewer than 10 employees immediately before a specified time, or

(b) was begun as a new business in a specified period.

(11) For the purposes of subsection (10)—

(a) “ specified ” means specified in the regulations, and

(b) the number of employees a business had or the time when a business was begun as a new business is to be determined in accordance with the regulations.

(12) Before making regulations under this section, a Minister of the Crown must consult any other Minister of the Crown with responsibility for employment tribunals.]

Textual Amendments

F148 S. 139A inserted (25.4.2013) by Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), ss. 98(2), 103(1)

140 Conduct giving rise to separate proceedings E+W+S

(1) This section applies in relation to conduct which has given rise to two or more separate proceedings under this Act, with at least one being for a contravention of section 111 (instructing, causing or inducing contraventions).

(2) A court may transfer proceedings to an employment tribunal.

(3) An employment tribunal may transfer proceedings to a court.

(4) A court or employment tribunal is to be taken for the purposes of this Part to have jurisdiction to determine a claim or complaint transferred to it under this section; accordingly—

(a) a reference to a claim within section 114(1) includes a reference to a claim transferred to a court under this section, and

(b) a reference to a complaint within section 120(1) includes a reference to a complaint transferred to an employment tribunal under this section.

(5) A court or employment tribunal may not make a decision that is inconsistent with an earlier decision in proceedings arising out of the conduct.

(6) “Court” means—

(a) in relation to proceedings in England and Wales, [F149 the county court];

(b) in relation to proceedings in Scotland, the sheriff.

Textual Amendments

F149 Words in s. 140(6) substituted (22.4.2014) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 9 para. 52; S.I. 2014/954, art. 2(c) (with art. 3) (with transitional provisions and savings in S.I. 2014/956, arts. 3-11)

Commencement Information

I59 S. 140 wholly in force; s. 140 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 140 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(j) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

F150 140A Extension of time limits because of mediation in certain cross-border disputes E+W+S

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F150 S. 140A omitted (31.12.2020) by virtue of The Cross-Border Mediation (EU Directive) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/469), reg. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 17(5) (with reg. 5) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1493, regs. 1(1), 4(5)(6)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

[F151 140AA Extension of time limits because of alternative dispute resolution in certain cross border or domestic contractual disputes E+W+S

(1) In this section—

F152 (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[F153 (b) “ADR entity” means a person whose name appears on a list maintained in accordance with regulation 10 of the Alternative Dispute Resolution for Consumer Disputes (Competent Authorities and Information) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/542)].

F154 (c) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[F155 (d) “ADR procedure” means a procedure for the out-of-court resolution of disputes through the intervention of an ADR entity which proposes or imposes a solution or brings the parties together with the aim of facilitating an amicable solution]

[F156 (da) “consumer” means an individual acting for purposes which are wholly or mainly outside that individual’s trade, business, craft or profession;]

(e) “non-binding ADR procedure” means an ADR procedure the outcome of which is not binding on the parties;

[F157 (f) “relevant dispute” means a dispute that—

(a) concerns obligations under a sales contract or a service contract, and

(b) is between a trader established in the United Kingdom or the European Union and a consumer resident in the United Kingdom, which the parties attempt to settle by recourse to a non-binding ADR procedure.]

[F158 (g) “sales contract” means a contract under which a trader transfers, or agrees to transfer, the ownership of goods to a consumer and the consumer pays, or agrees to pay, the price, including any contract that has both goods and services as its object;

(h) “service contract” means a contract, other than a sales contract, under which a trader supplies, or agrees to supply, a service to a consumer and the consumer pays, or agrees to pay, the price;

(i) “trader” means a person acting for purposes relating to that person’s trade, business, craft or profession, whether acting personally or through another person acting in the trader’s name or on the trader’s behalf.]

(2) Subsection (3) applies where—

(a) a time limit is set by section 118(1)(a) and (2) in relation to the whole or part of a relevant dispute;

(b) a non-binding ADR procedure in relation to the relevant dispute starts before the time limit expires; and

(c) if not extended by this section, the time limit would expire before the non-binding ADR procedure ends or less than eight weeks after it ends.

(3) For the purposes of initiating judicial proceedings, the time limit expires instead at the end of eight weeks after the non-binding ADR procedure ends (subject to subsection (4)).

(4) If a time limit has been extended by this section, subsections (2) and (3) apply to the extended time limit as they apply to a time limit mentioned in subsection (2)(a).

(5) Where more than one time limit applies in relation to a relevant dispute, the extension by subsection (3) of one of those time limits does not affect the others.

(6) For the purposes of this section, a non-binding ADR procedure starts in relation to a relevant dispute on the date when the dispute is first sent or otherwise communicated to the ADR entity in accordance with the entity’s rules regarding the submission of complaints.

(7) For the purposes of this section, the non-binding ADR procedure ends on the date of the first of these to occur—

(a) the parties reach an agreement in resolution of the relevant dispute;

(b) a party completes the notification of the other parties that it has withdrawn from the non-binding ADR procedure;

(c) a party to whom a qualifying request is made fails to give a response reaching the other parties within 14 days of the request;

(d) that the ADR entity notifies the party that submitted the relevant dispute to the ADR entity that, in accordance with its policy, the ADR entity refuses to deal with the relevant dispute;

(e) after the parties are notified that the ADR entity can no longer act in relation to the relevant dispute (for whatever reason), the parties fail to agree within 14 days to submit the dispute to an alternative ADR entity;

(f) the non-binding ADR procedure otherwise comes to an end pursuant to the rules of the ADR entity.

(8) For the purpose of subsection (6), a qualifying request is a request by a party that another (A) confirm to all parties that A is continuing with the non-binding ADR procedure.

(9) In the case of any relevant dispute, references in this section to a non-binding ADR procedure are references to the non-binding ADR procedure so far as it relates to that dispute, and references to a party are to be read accordingly.

(10) Where a court or tribunal has power under section 118(1)(b) to extend a period of limitation, the power is exercisable in relation to the period of limitation as extended by this section.]

Textual Amendments

F151 S. 140AA inserted (9.7.2015) by The Alternative Dispute Resolution for Consumer Disputes (Amendment) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/1392), regs. 1(2), 7(3) (with reg. 1(3))

F152 S. 140AA(1)(a) omitted (31.12.2020) by virtue of The Equality (Amendment and Revocation) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/305), regs. 1, 5(2)(a) (with reg. 10) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1139, regs. 1(2), 6(3); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1))

F153 S. 140AA(1)(b) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Equality (Amendment and Revocation) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/305), regs. 1, 5(2)(b) (with reg. 10) (as substituted by S.I. 2020/1139, regs. 1(2), 6(2)(a) (with reg. 7))

F154 S. 140AA(1)(c) omitted (9.1.2016) by virtue of The Alternative Dispute Resolution for Consumer Disputes (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/1972), regs. 1, 5(2)

F155 S. 140AA(1)(d) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Equality (Amendment and Revocation) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/305), regs. 1, 5(2)(c) (with reg. 10) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1139, regs. 1(2), 6(3); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1))

F156 S. 140AA(1)(da) inserted (31.12.2020) by S.I. 2019/305, reg. 5(2)(ca) (as inserted by The Alternative Dispute Resolution for Consumer Disputes (Extension of Time Limits for Legal Proceedings) (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/1139), regs. 1(2), 6(2)(b) (with reg. 7))

F157 S. 140AA(1)(f) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Equality (Amendment and Revocation) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/305), regs. 1, 5(2)(d) (with reg. 10) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1139, regs. 1(2), 6(2)(c)(3); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1))

F158 S. 140AA(1)(g)-(i) inserted (31.12.2020) by S.I. 2019/305, reg. 5(2)(e) (as inserted by The Alternative Dispute Resolution for Consumer Disputes (Extension of Time Limits for Legal Proceedings) (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/1139), regs. 1(2), 6(2)(d) (with reg. 7))

[F159 140B Extension of time limits to facilitate conciliation before institution of proceedings E+W+S

(1) This section applies where a time limit is set by section 123(1)(a) or 129(3) or (4).

F160 ...

(2) In this section—

(a) Day A is the day on which the complainant or applicant concerned complies with the requirement in subsection (1) of section 18A of the Employment Tribunals Act 1996 (requirement to contact ACAS before instituting proceedings) in relation to the matter in respect of which the proceedings are brought, and

(b) Day B is the day on which the complainant or applicant concerned receives or, if earlier, is treated as receiving (by virtue of regulations made under subsection (11) of that section) the certificate issued under subsection (4) of that section.

(3) In working out when the time limit set by section 123(1)(a) or 129(3) or (4) expires the period beginning with the day after Day A and ending with Day B is not to be counted.

(4) If the time limit set by section 123(1)(a) or 129(3) or (4) would (if not extended by this subsection) expire during the period beginning with Day A and ending one month after Day B, the time limit expires instead at the end of that period.

(5) The power conferred on the employment tribunal by subsection (1)(b) of section 123 to extend the time limit set by subsection (1)(a) of that section is exercisable in relation to that time limit as extended by this section.]

Textual Amendments

F159 S.140B inserted (6.4.2014) by Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), Sch. 2 para. 45; S.I. 2014/253, art. 3(g)

F160 Words in s. 140B(1) omitted (31.12.2020) by virtue of The Cross-Border Mediation (EU Directive) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/469), reg. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 17(6) (with reg. 5 (as amended by S.I. 2020/1493, regs. 1(1), 4(5)(6))); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

141 Interpretation, etc. E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of this Part.

(2) A reference to the responsible person, in relation to an equality clause or rule, is to be construed in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 5.

(3) A reference to a worker is a reference to the person to the terms of whose work the proceedings in question relate; and, for the purposes of proceedings relating to an equality rule or a non-discrimination rule, a reference to a worker includes a reference to a member of the occupational pension scheme in question.

(4) A reference to the terms of a person's work is to be construed in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 5.

(5) A reference to a member of an occupational pension scheme includes a reference to a prospective member.

(6) In relation to proceedings in England and Wales, a person has an incapacity if the person—

(a) has not attained the age of 18, or

(b) lacks capacity (within the meaning of the Mental Capacity Act 2005).

(7) In relation to proceedings in Scotland, a person has an incapacity if the person—

(a) has not attained the age of 16, or

(b) is incapable (within the meaning of the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 (asp 4)).

[F161 (8) Service complaint” means a complaint made under section 340A(1) or (2) of the Armed Forces Act 2006.]

(9) “Criminal matter” means—

(a) an investigation into the commission of an alleged offence;

(b) a decision whether to commence criminal proceedings;

(c) criminal proceedings.

Textual Amendments

F161 S. 141(8) substituted (1.1.2016) by Armed Forces (Service Complaints and Financial Assistance) Act 2015 (c. 19), s. 7(1), Sch. para. 15; S.I. 2015/1957, reg. 2 (with savings and transitional provisions in S.I. 2015/1969)

Commencement Information

I60 S. 141 wholly in force; s. 141 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 216; s. 141 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2317, art. 2(1)(9)(j) (with art. 15, and subject to transitional provision in art. 7)

Part 10 E+W+S Contracts, etc.

Contracts and other agreements E+W+S

142 Unenforceable terms E+W+S

(1) A term of a contract is unenforceable against a person in so far as it constitutes, promotes or provides for treatment of that or another person that is of a description prohibited by this Act.

(2) A relevant non-contractual term is unenforceable against a person in so far as it constitutes, promotes or provides for treatment of that or another person that is of a description prohibited by this Act, in so far as this Act relates to disability.

(3) A relevant non-contractual term is a term which—

(a) is a term of an agreement that is not a contract, and

(b) relates to the provision of an employment service within section 56(2)(a) to (e) or to the provision under a group insurance arrangement of facilities by way of insurance.

(4) A reference in subsection (1) or (2) to treatment of a description prohibited by this Act does not include—

(a) a reference to the inclusion of a term in a contract referred to in section 70(2)(a) or 76(2), or

(b) a reference to the failure to include a term in a contract as referred to in section 70(2)(b).

(5) Subsection (4) does not affect the application of section 148(2) to this section.

143 Removal or modification of unenforceable terms E+W+S

(1) [F162 The county court] or the sheriff may, on an application by a person who has an interest in a contract or other agreement which includes a term that is unenforceable as a result of section 142, make an order for the term to be removed or modified.

(2) An order under this section must not be made unless every person who would be affected by it—

(a) has been given notice of the application (except where notice is dispensed with in accordance with rules of court), and

(b) has been afforded an opportunity to make representations to the county court or sheriff.

(3) An order under this section may include provision in respect of a period before the making of the order.

Textual Amendments

F162 Words in s. 143(1) substituted (22.4.2014) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(3), Sch. 9 para. 52; S.I. 2014/954, art. 2(c) (with art. 3) (with transitional provisions and savings in S.I. 2014/956, arts. 3-11)

144 Contracting out E+W+S

(1) A term of a contract is unenforceable by a person in whose favour it would operate in so far as it purports to exclude or limit a provision of or made under this Act.

(2) A relevant non-contractual term (as defined by section 142) is unenforceable by a person in whose favour it would operate in so far as it purports to exclude or limit a provision of or made under this Act, in so far as the provision relates to disability.

(3) This section does not apply to a contract which settles a claim within section 114.

(4) This section does not apply to a contract which settles a complaint within section 120 if the contract—

(a) is made with the assistance of a conciliation officer, or

(b) is a qualifying [F163 settlement agreement ].

(5) A contract within subsection (4) includes a contract which settles a complaint relating to a breach of an equality clause or rule or of a non-discrimination rule.

(6) A contract within subsection (4) includes an agreement by the parties to a dispute to submit the dispute to arbitration if—

(a) the dispute is covered by a scheme having effect by virtue of an order under section 212A of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992, and

(b) the agreement is to submit the dispute to arbitration in accordance with the scheme.

Textual Amendments

F163 Words in s. 144(4)(b) substituted (29.7.2013) by Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (c. 24), ss. 23(5),