HL Deb 23 March 1999 vol 598 c141WA
Lord Lester of Herne Hill

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they support the proposals by the Starting Line Group for legislative measures to combat racism and to promote equal rights in the European Union. [HL1541]

The Minister of State, Home Office (Lord Williams of Mostyn)

The Government supported the inclusion in the Amsterdam Treaty of Article 13 which will provide a legal base for taking Community action against racism and other forms of discrimination. The Government will continue to play a full and positive part in the development of Community action to tackle racial discrimination once the treaty comes into force. The Starting Line Group has played an important role in the development of thinking in this area and the Government very much welcome the constructive and thoughtful contribution it has made to the debate.