HL Deb 17 June 2003 vol 649 cc784-5

10.25 p.m.

Lord Sainsbury of Turville

My Lords, I beg to move.

Moved, That the draft regulations laid before the House on 8th May be approved.— (Lord Sainsbury of Turville.)

Lord Wedderburn of Charlton

My Lords, the regulations are to effect a European directive that protects me from discrimination on grounds of religion or belief. The regulations, which the Minister moved formally, are quite different. They protect those who have religion—religious belief —or similar philosophical beliefs. My beliefs are not similar to religion; they do not rest on revelation or faith. However we define religion, I do not share or have beliefs that share any similar basis. For the Government to protect in British law only those who have a similar belief is, first, outwith the European directive and, indeed, outwith the European tradition.

Willing though I am at this time of the night to discuss the Fire Services Bill, I am not willing to weary your Lordships with a list of European documents that, as many noble Lords will know, protect those who have a belief founded on religion.

Lord Sainsbury of Turville

My Lords, I must ask the noble Lord which regulations he is talking about. I formally moved the sexual orientation regulations.

Lord Wedderburn of Charlton

My Lords, I am covered in apology. I apologise to the noble Lord. I will speak when we come to the relevant regulations. I misheard.

Lord Sainsbury of Turville

I apologise for that.