Decision details

The Leader of the Council presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'N' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet were informed of the requirement for BCP Council to meet certain responsibilities set out in the Public Sector Equality Duty of the Equality Act, and in relation to this were requested to consider the draft Corporate Equality & Diversity Policy & Governance for approval, and to note the progress towards the development of a Corporate Equality Action Plan.

In presented the report the Leader advised of an agreed amendment in respect of p.335 Section 2 where it had been agreed to remove the wording ‘regardless of’. In addition Cabinet were advised that it was proposed that in relation to the Strategic Leadership Officer Group that some of the officers had been proposed to be removed as standing officers and would be invited to attend when necessary, and that the group was intended to include the Opposition Lead Member for Equalities.

In addition Cabinet expressed the view that the Council should not limit itself to the nine protected characteristics, and that other characteristics should be considered when appropriate.

RESOLVED that:-

(i)              the draft Corporate Equality & Diversity Policy & Governance Framework be approved; and

(ii)            the progress towards the development of a Corporate Equality Action Plan be noted.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Leader of the Council