Single equality body plans welcomed

Business leaders said burdens on firms should be reduced under the merging of the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC), Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) and Disability Rights Commission (DRC).

The new body will promote human rights and take charge of new legislation outlawing workplace discrimination on religion or belief, sexual orientation or age.

Constitutional Affairs Secretary Lord Falconer said: "For the first time, we will have one, single body whose job it is to uphold and enhance the rights of all members of our community."

The Government said the new commission would also aim to prevent costly tribunal cases by helping to tackle the causes of discrimination.

John Cridland, deputy director-general of the Confederation of British Industry, said: "A properly developed single equality commission could be good for businesses and individuals. The current range of bodies is often confusing, wastes time and fails to allow for cases that cut across their remits.

"But it is vital that the new body is genuinely committed to working with business. Education not litigation is the key, saving businesses tribunal costs and actively encouraging a diverse workforce."

He added: "We are concerned that this announcement should not be seen as a stepping stone to a single Equality Act. Companies have yet to adapt to the full implications of a mass of new employment legislation. Imposing new obligations would be going too far too soon."

Angie Bell