Equality Bill

Women and Equality – in the House of Commons at 10:30 am on 25 June 2009.

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Photo of Angela Watkinson Angela Watkinson Opposition Whip (Commons) 10:30, 25 June 2009

What representations she has received on the provisions in the Equality Bill on provision of goods and services on the basis of age.

Photo of Michael Jabez Foster Michael Jabez Foster Parliamentary Secretary, Government Equalities Office

I refer the hon. Lady to the response given earlier today.

Photo of Angela Watkinson Angela Watkinson Opposition Whip (Commons)

I thank the Minister for that answer, but it is not only older people who are encompassed in the problem. Very young drivers are a high-risk group, and the insurance industry needs assurances that it will be able to undertake proper risk assessment and make sure that its insurance premiums reflect that additional risk.

Photo of Michael Jabez Foster Michael Jabez Foster Parliamentary Secretary, Government Equalities Office

It is clear that there is discrimination against older people in particular, but of course, before any regulations are made, the industry will be properly consulted; that, indeed, is the purpose of the Government's proposals.