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The Bar of England and Wales continues to lead the way among professions in its practical approach to equality and diversity within the Bar. This concern with fair treatment and respect for individual dignity is especially important in a profession whose own task is to uphold people's rights without fear or favour.
This edition of the Equality Code has been updated to take into account increasing awareness in discrimination issues and developing law, including disability legislation. Although it cannot provide comprehensive guidance to the law, it does provide practical guidance on implementation of good equal opportunities practices in areas where equality and diversity issues are most likely to arise. It places greater emphasis on:
For those accessing the document electronically, there are hyperlinks to relevant legal provisions, codes of practice, model policies and guidance.
The profession was consulted about the first draft, and the final version incorporates many of the suggestions received. The Bar Council unanimously approved the Equality Code at its meeting on 17 July 2004.
The Bar Council's Equality and Diversity Advisers are willing to provide advice and guidance, and can provide information about planned training courses and briefings. This Code is the result of much effort by experts in the field. We urge you to draw upon that expertise.
THE RT HON LORD GOLDSMITH QC, ATTORNEY GENERAL
STEPEHN IRWIN QC, CHAIRMAN, GENERAL COUNCIL OF THE BAR
