Equality Bill

My Lords, I am extremely grateful to everyone who has taken part in this debate, particularly to the most reverend Primate the Archbishop of York for his contribution. When I listen to him on the subject of discrimination, I always feel that he speaks not only as a very distinguished archbishop, but as a human being who understands exactly what the problems of discrimination are, and looks at these issues not as a lawyer but in a common-sense way to make the law work in practice. I am only a lawyer, but I have experience within my chambers as a small employer; I doubt we employ more than about 30 people, with probably not more than 75 barristers. We have a different kind of experience, because we are constantly seeking to choose pupils and tenants on the basis of individual merit. I have discussed these provisions of the Bill with the diversity team in my chambers, and they are happy to work within that framework. I have been persuaded by what the Minister has said that proportionality is already fully within Clause 157, and that my words add nothing—although I am very grateful that the most reverend Primate prefers them to those already there. It is not for me to second guess parliamentary counsel, once I am satisfied that the substance is there. I am very grateful indeed that proportionality has been written into Clause 158 by the Minister indicating that she will accept Amendment 118A. The most reverend Primate was also talking about ““reasonably thinks””. I think that is in the next group of amendments, so although I agree with him, we will come back to that later. I share the view of the Minister and the Government about the other amendments. This is, therefore, an opportune moment for me to withdraw the amendment. Amendment 115C withdrawn. Clause 157 agreed. Clause 158 : Positive action: recruitment and promotion Amendment 116 Clause 158 : Positive action: recruitment and promotion Amendment 116 Moved by