§ Lord Ouseleyasked Her Majesty's Government:
What lessons they have learnt from the experiences of a unified single Equalities Commission in Northern Ireland; and whether there are any benefits for the remainder of the United Kingdom in following that route. [HL1041]
§ The Minister of State, Cabinet Office (Baroness Morgan of Huyton)We are learning from the experience in Northern Ireland of creating a unified single Equality Commission. It covers a range of practical and financial matters, as well as issues relating to the functions, structure, balance, focus and accountability of the commission. Further lessons will no doubt be learnt as the commission beds down. Equality and human rights issues, including the setting up of the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, were key factors in the Good Friday Agreement. The situation in Northern Ireland is unique. However, we are continuing to watch developments there so that we can consider whether, and, if so, the extent to which, lessons learnt might be applied throughout the rest of the UK.