We are today beginning a UK consultation on the European Commission proposal for an equal treatment directive. The consultation will end on 28 July 2009. The consultation document seeks views to inform the UK Government’s further consideration of a proposed European Commission (EC) directive to prohibit discrimination on the grounds of religion or belief, disability, age and sexual orientation outside the areas of employment and vocational training.

The UK Government wish to consult in particular on the impact of the draft directive in those areas where their proposals are, or might be, at variance with the current and proposed law, and on the impact of the proposals on individuals, business and others.

The written consultation is being supplemented by a range of discussions with key stakeholders bilaterally and members of the public through public consultation events.

The consultation document is being sent to around 300 organisations and will be available on the website of the Government Equalities Office at: www.equalities. gov.uk/international/eu_directive.aspx

I am also placing copies in the Vote Office and in the Libraries of the House.