Kemi Badenoch, a former Conservative minister for equalities, is making waves with her controversial stance on public sector equality duties. In a move that has sparked debate, Badenoch plans to scrap the public sector equality duty (PSED), a legal requirement that mandates public bodies to consider and promote equality in their operations. This decision comes as she aims to position herself as a responsible leader, appealing to both the conservative base and those frustrated with the current political landscape.
A Populist Angle?
Badenoch's strategy is twofold. Firstly, she wants to differentiate herself from Reform UK, a party that has pledged to scrap the Equality Act altogether. By committing to the partial repeal of the PSED, she positions herself as a moderate alternative, balancing the demands of the conservative base with a desire to avoid the extreme positions of Reform. Secondly, she aims to appeal to the populist anger that has been simmering in the UK, particularly in the wake of the Henry Nowak tragedy. The murder of the 18-year-old student, who was falsely accused of racism and handcuffed while bleeding to death, has brought the issue of two-tier policing and the role of identity politics to the forefront.
The PSED: A Double-Edged Sword?
The PSED, as outlined by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), is designed to ensure that public bodies do not engage in unlawful behavior, such as discrimination, harassment, and victimization. It also encourages these bodies to actively promote equality in their services and policies. However, Badenoch argues that the PSED is being used to advance 'dangerous and divisive agendas', citing examples like the Bank of England's decision to replace historical figures on banknotes with animals and birds, and police training that allegedly discourages officers from treating people equally.
A Complex Issue
The debate surrounding the PSED is complex. While some argue that it is being misused to push radical ideologies, others point out that it is a crucial tool for ensuring that public services are inclusive and fair. The EHRC, for instance, emphasizes that the PSED is not a barrier but a guide, helping organizations make informed decisions that benefit everyone. The commission's new chair, who wrote her PhD thesis on the PSED, has argued that it has a positive impact on equality practice in public authorities.
The Political Landscape
Badenoch's move to scrap the PSED is part of a broader strategy to differentiate herself from both Labour and Reform. She accuses Labour of wanting to expand 'DEI bureaucracy', while Reform has pledged to scrap the entire Equality Act. This positioning is particularly interesting given the recent political tensions, including the violence in Southampton and the Trump administration's criticism of 'two-tier policing'.
Conclusion: Navigating the Storm
As Badenoch navigates these turbulent waters, her strategy to balance responsibility and populism will be closely watched. The question remains: can she successfully appeal to both the conservative base and those seeking a more moderate approach to equality and public policy? The outcome will have significant implications for the future of equality duties in the UK and the political landscape as a whole.
