Discrimination Bill Initiated

The government is to launch a consultation document this week, the first step in a bill outlawing workplace and housing discrimination based on sexual orientation.

The proposals will enable victims of discrimination to sue for damages. The bill is also expected to boost partnership rights for same sex couples, particularly pension rights.

Churches will be exempt from some of the proposals. They will be allowed to stipulate conditions for some posts, for example gay men and lesbians may only be employed if they remain celibate.

The Christian Institute is lobbying for such exemptions to cover anyone working for a religious organisation.

Iain Bainbridge, of the Christian Institute, said: "The janitor might be very important because often he is the first person people meet if they come to a church or school. So we would say a church should be able to have a Christian caretaker if they so wish."

Barbara Roche, the Cabinet Officer Equality Minister, will present the consultation document later this week.

If passed, the bill will bring Britain in line with most other European countries.