§ Lord Ouseleyasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is the timetable for introducing the proposed single Equality and Human Rights Commission; and whether they intend to respond to the criticisms of such a body by the Commission for Racial Equality; and [HL4466]
Whether they intend to respond to the objections raised by black and other multi-ethnic-led organisations to their proposal to introduce a single Equality and Human Rights Commission; and, if so, when. [HL4467]
§ The Minister of State, Home Office (Baroness Scotland of Asthal)We have received over 450 consultation responses from private, public and voluntary and community organisations, including many detailed responses from black and other multi-ethnic organisations and from faith organisations. We received a full and thoughtful response from the Commission for Racial Equality. We are giving careful attention to the many issues raised, including those raised by CRE, and will address them in the Government's response to the consultation this autumn.
The Government have said that they will bring forward legislation to create the CEHR as soon as 50WA parliamentary time allows. As we have made clear, the CEHR will not be established with its full powers and remit before the end of 2006 at the earliest.