May: Act ‘streamlines the laws’
Theresa May, home secretary, comments on the provisions of the Equality Act coming into force today:
“In these challenging economic times it’s more important than ever for employers to make the most of all the talent available.
“When a company reflects the society it serves, it’s better for the employer, the employees and the customers, so being a woman should never be a barrier to being treated fairly at work.
“This move towards transparency is just one part of the Equality Act, which also makes it easier for businesses to comply with discrimination law by streamlining the equality laws, and provides more protection to disabled people.
“From today the gagging clauses that stop people discussing their pay with their colleagues will be unenforceable, allowing women – and men – to find out if they’re being paid unfairly.”
