17.09.12
‘Last legal form of discrimination’ to be scrapped
The Government is tackling a “discriminatory” law that strips MPs of their seat if they have experienced over six months of mental illness.
By backing MP Gavin Barwell’s private members bill, the Government has taken a step towards making the Mental Health (Discrimintaion) Bill law. The Bill had its second reading in the House of Commons on Friday.
There is no equivalent provision for politicians who have suffered a physical condition which prevents them from fulfilling their duties. Currently, the law also prevents individuals from becoming company directors or from serving on a jury.
The Law Society has warned that the current law could be in breach of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The bill comes as an extension of Lord Stevenson’s work, who launched a similar campaign in the House of Lords, and has received overwhelming cross-party support.
Barwell stated: “The law as it stands sends out a clear message that if someone has a mental health condition their contribution to public life is not welcome. That is an affront to a decent civilised society.”
He also added that his bill could “tackle the last legal form of discrimination in our society”.
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: “It’s ludicrous in this day and age that a person can’t contribute to public life if they’ve had issues with their mental health.”
Labour leader Ed Miliband said: “Attitudes towards mental health are changing but we still have further to go to reduce the taboo that surrounds mental health, and this is an important step towards equality.
“These changes will help to bring public understanding and attitudes towards mental health into the 21st century.”
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