Bill of Rights Commission report
Commenting in response to the Bill of Rights Commission's report published today, Mark Hammond, CEO of the Equality and Human Rights Commission said,
'The Human Rights Act has provided essential human rights protection to everyone in Britain and complements our long history of constitutional traditions and protection of people in vulnerable situations.'
'The Commission believes that if a Bill of Rights were developed it should not water down any human rights protection contained in the Human Rights Act, but use it as a starting point to see where additional, essential protections could be brought in.'
'The Human Rights Act has shown its value by providing an essential safeguard in areas such as protecting older people and disabled people receiving care, British servicemen and women fighting abroad and the freedom of our press. It has also enabled British people to make claims in British courts rather than having to go through the costly and time-consuming process of going to a European court.'
'The Commission welcomes a debate on such an important issue, but would not support a reversal of the leading global role Britain has long played in promoting and protecting human rights'
For more press information contact the Commission's media office on 020 3117 0255, out of hours 07767 272 818.
Notes to Editors
The Commission is a statutory body established under the Equality Act 2006, which took over the responsibilities of Commission for Racial Equality, Disability Rights Commission and Equal Opportunities Commission. It is the independent advocate for equality and human rights in Britain. It aims to reduce inequality, eliminate discrimination, strengthen good relations between people, and promote and protect human rights. The Commission enforces equality legislation on age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation or transgender status, and encourages compliance with the Human Rights Act. It also gives advice and guidance to businesses, the voluntary and public sectors, and to individuals.
Last Updated: 18 Dec 2012