A two-year government review of the balance of competences between the UK and EU was announced by the Foreign Secretary in July 2012.
The Balance of Competences Review is intended to provide an informed and objective analysis of what EU membership means for the UK and our national interest. It is looking at the scope of the EU’s competences (the power to act in a particular area) as they affect the UK, as well as how they are used.
There are two reviews within the overall review programme that are of particular relevance to Equality and Diversity Forum members and those concerned with Equality and Human Rights: the Fundamental Rights Review, and the Social and Employment Review.
Fundamental Rights Review
The Balance of Competences: Fundamental Rights Review examines the balance of competences between the UK and the European Union on fundamental rights.
Fundamental rights are protections or guarantees for individuals that are built into the EU’s legal system. They set out basic freedoms and rights that anyone can expect, such as the right to freedom of expression and freedom to pursue a trade or profession.
The closing date for responding was 13 January 2014.
- Equality and Diversity Forum response
- Equality and Human Rights Commission response
- Law Society response
Social and Employment Review
The Call for Evidence: Social and Employment Review was launched on 29 October 2013 by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. It is being led by BIS, jointly with the Department for Work and Pensions, the Health and Safety Executive and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. It will consider areas such as equal treatment, employment rules, social protection and health and safety at work.
The closing date for responding was 17 January 2014.
- Equality and Diversity Forum response
