Equality Bill [HL]

I thank my noble friend for her reply. I, too, will study what she said during the coming days to see whether there is a chink of light that may satisfy me. But I fear that the Government have caused themselves a problem by giving these protections to religious communities and by excluding the gay community. Not giving them at the same time is the issue that is left on the table. My noble friend will know that I am not satisfied in terms of the speed at which these issues are to be dealt with. I have offered in a generous and humble way an olive branch. I hope that the Home Office will see fit to accept it. If not, my noble friend knows how strongly I feel about this issue and October will be an interesting time. I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. [Amendments Nos. 212C to 212U not moved.] Clause 81 [Prohibition of discrimination]: [Amendment No. 212V not moved.]