Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, whether she has received evidence of an increase in discrimination against non-UK EU nationals seeking employment because of uncertainty on the future status of such nationals in the UK; and if she will make a statement.

The United Kingdom has a proud record of promoting equality and some of the strongest laws in the world to prevent and tackle discrimination. We will continue to make sure that these rights are protected.

The Government Equalities Office (GEO) is aware of, and is looking into, the reports of discrimination against non-UK EU nationals seeking employment which the hon Member has recently forwarded to the Secretary of State for Exiting the EU. The GEO sponsors the Equality and Human Rights Commission, which has powers to enforce the Equality Act 2010 in cases where it suspects unlawful discrimination in employment may have occurred.

Anyone who believes that they have experienced unlawful discrimination when seeking employment or when receiving goods or services, should seek advice and support from the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service: http://www.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=1461.

Additionally, they can also contact the Equality Advisory and Support Service: https://www.equalityadvisoryservice.com.