That was the message last week from experts at Cambridge University. The team undertook an independent review of the UK's anti-discrimination laws and believes that without radical changes, our laws will be found wanting once the Human Rights Act comes into force in October. They also believe that unless the laws are extended to cover discrimination on grounds of religion, age and sexual orientation, current legislation is likely to be rendered unlawful by virtue of a European Union directive in December.
Equality is higher than ever on the political agenda.
The Treaty of Amsterdam has given EU members broad new powers to combat discrimination. It provides a chance to look at the bigger picture and if legislative changes are to take full effect, they must accompany changes in attitude. The emphasis on the need for cultural change is welcomed. It is essential that the attitudes and behaviour of organisations and individuals keep pace with the law. The report proposes a series of reforms, including a duty on employers to conduct reviews of their practices.