Equality and Human Rights - why do we need a regional quango?

8.41.00pm GMT Tue 9th Mar 2010

Equality South West is the region's lead equality and human rights organisation. They facilitate regional equality networks on age, disability, gender, race, religion and belief, sexual orientation, and transgender. They claim to have Network Members throughout the whole region, in every constituency.

Their Board of Trustees is made up of activists from each of the seven Networks, as well as senior colleagues from GOSW, the South West RDA, South West Councils, Business Link (Northern Arc), the South West TUC, the Learning and Skills Council, etc.

They have written to parliamentary candidates to ask their views on equality and, particularly, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender rights (LGB&T), as they are currently conducting a survey of LGB&T people throughout the region.

Chief Executive Paul Dunn says, "I hope you agree that every constituent has the right to receive equal treatment from their MP, whatever their background. That is why I am asking you to respond to this question:

Would you vote to support legislation that gives lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people equal legal rights in all aspects of their lives, including civil partnerships or marriage?

I am asking the same question of PPCs in the region and shall publish your reply on our website."

www.equalitysouthwest.org.uk

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Comment - Whilst I have no hesitation in answering Yes to the question it would also be interesting to know how much this organisation costs the taxpayer, and why it is necessary given that we have a national human rights organisation, and that all local councils show a commitment to equality for all of their residents.