I widely welcomes the Government’s Equalities Bill published today in the House of Commons. This is a unique moment for equality in this country and the Government is widely applauded for its initiative to bring all equalities legislation into one act that is enforced, readable and effective.

I have to say ultimate praise goes to the Equalities Minister Harriet Harman MP, without her determination and commitment we would not be able to get to today and when history comes to judge 2008 her name will forever be remembered for equality and the historic steps she has take today. I urge the Government to introduce the Bill in the next Queens Speech and ensure that it completes its passage before summer 2009.

I urge all political parties to support the Bill and ensure that any attempt to delay passage will be met with resistance from the country at large. I condemn the right wing media for the headlines in today’s papers, these headlines are based on lies, they should be ashamed.

I am pleased that the Government have taken this initiative in the Equalities field, we pay tribute to the Government and in particular the Equalities Minister Harriet Harman MP, without her leadership and commitment we would not be able to get to this stage.

I urge the Government to introduce the Bill in the next session and let’s make history together.

I condemn those tabloids that print blatant lies that pander to prejudice and discrimination, no person will receive any preferential treatment under these proposals.”