Overview

• EHRC says it has delivered updated statutory guidance on applying the Equality Act after April’s Supreme Court ruling, but it has not been laid before Parliament and the body urges swift action.
• Critics allege Bridget Phillipson is holding back publication until after Labour’s deputy leadership contest, while her allies deny political motives and say ministers are completing engagement and awaiting the EHRC’s equality impact assessment.
• Several Labour MPs say releasing the guidance before voting closes would make supporting Phillipson difficult due to constituent opposition, affecting her prospects in the race.
• Rival candidate Lucy Powell argues the guidance goes too far and calls for a robust parliamentary role in deciding how the law is applied.
• Businesses and public bodies report they are waiting to update policies until the guidance is published, though EHRC chair Baroness Falkner says the Supreme Court ruling already provides sufficient legal clarity.