New clause 5 - Equality Duty

Part of Justice (Northern Ireland) Bill – in a Public Bill Committee am 9:30 am ar 14 Chwefror 2002.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Des Browne Des Browne Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Northern Ireland Office, Parliamentary Secretary (Northern Ireland Office) 9:30, 14 Chwefror 2002

I am not sure whether I am known for my subtlety.

Our interesting discussion is a result of the intervention made by the hon. Member for North Down (Lady Hermon), and I am not intervening because I disagree with anything that has been said by her or my hon. Friend. I merely want to ensure that he understands that section 75 of the 1998 Act cannot be restricted to policies and procedures. It applies to the functions of a body. I mention that as a matter for debate, not as a block to what he sets out to achieve. I

just want to extend the debate to include some of the relevant offices, with an understanding of their functions, which sometimes affect individuals.