Government publish Equality Bill, quoting evidence from The Spirit Level

Submitted by Kathryn Busby on 27 April 2009

This morning the government published their new Equality Bill, which they say will make Britain "stronger, fairer and more equal."

The Government's statement introducing the Bill quotes evidence from The Spirit Level:

"Everyone in society, not just the poor, is adversely affected by inequality. Inequality leads to shorter, unhealthier, and unhappier lives, and increases violence and social problems..... Equal societies benefit everyone."

The Equality Bill will "put a new duty on Government Ministers, departments and key public bodies (such as Local Authorities, Primary Care Trusts, Police or Education Authorities) to consider what action they can take to reduce the socio-economic inequality people face when making strategic decisions about spending and services."

This is a positive and encouraging step forward. Equally important will be the form in which these provisions of the Bill become law, and how the duty "to consider" is translated into action.

For some discussion of this aspect of the Equality Bill, listen to this morning's Today programme.

Fast-forward to 1h12m to hear Professor Danny Dorling & Dr Peter Marsh give their views. Fast-forward to 1h52m to hear Harriet Harman discuss the Bill.