'MODERNISING DISCRIMINATION LAW': PROPOSALS FOR A SINGLE EQUALITY ACT FOR GREAT BRITAIN

This article analyses the Discrimination Law Review, issued in June 2007, which proposes the introduction of a Single Equality Act for Great Britain. It argues that these proposals will lead to some valuable reforms especially through the harmonisation of legal definitions in areas such as disability discrimination and indirect discrimination. Yet, at the same time, the Discrimination Law Review has missed an opportunity to address some of the central problems that hinder the effectiveness of discrimination law. The analysis focuses on specific examples: the 'comparator' problem in equal pay and multiple discrimination cases; individual remedies; public sector duties; procurement; and positive action. The article concludes that although the proposals for a Single Equality Act will lead to greater protection for individuals they are unlikely to be an effective response to the problems of structural discrimination and social exclusion.