Scrap legal equality duty for public services, says Badenoch

Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative Party leader, has called for the scrapping of the Public Sector Equality Duty, a legal obligation that requires public bodies to actively promote equality and tackle discrimination across protected characteristics including race, gender, and disability.

Badenoch argues that the equality duty has rendered public institutions "institutionally incompetent," suggesting that compliance efforts have diverted resources and attention from core service delivery. The proposal represents a significant rightward shift in Conservative policy and signals how the party plans to position itself ahead of the next general election.

The Public Sector Equality Duty was established under the Equality Act 2010 and forms part of Britain's broader equality framework. It mandates that organizations like the NHS, local councils, and schools assess the impact of their policies on different groups and demonstrate commitment to equality outcomes. Badenoch's position directly challenges this legislative foundation.

The move aligns with broader Conservative efforts to distance the party from what some on the right characterize as "woke" governance priorities. Critics of the equality duty argue it creates bureaucratic overhead; supporters contend it ensures public services remain accessible and fair across communities.

Badenoch's statement marks a notable escalation in Conservative rhetoric around equality legislation. The party has previously criticized aspects of diversity and inclusion initiatives, but calling for the outright removal of a foundational equality law represents bolder territory. The proposal will likely provoke fierce debate among civil society organizations, which view the duty as essential protection against institutional discrimination.

This announcement comes as Badenoch establishes her leadership agenda following her election as Conservative leader. The party faces pressure to differentiate itself before the next election, and appeals to its base on cultural-war issues form part of that strategy.