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Age discrimination to be outlawed under new government plans

Summary: Older people will receive new protection from discrimination under proposals published by the government today (3rd March)

The plans will make it unlawful to unfairly discriminate against someone because of their age when providing goods and services.

Specific exceptions will allow companies to continue to offer beneficial services to certain age groups – for example free bus travel for over-60s, or holidays aimed at people aged 30 and under.

Providers of financial services, such as insurance companies, will still be allowed to use age when assessing risk and deciding prices. However, the new law, which will take effect from April 2012, will mean they have to base such decisions on solid evidence rather than simply imposing a blanket ban. Insurers will also be asked to help people find an alternative provider if they are unable to provide cover for age-related reasons.

Equalities Minister Lynne Featherstone said:

“It’s high time we put an end to outdated stereotypes based on age and recognised the valuable contributions that people of all ages can make to our society and economy. When older people are turned away from the market place through unfair treatment, the economy misses out on increased business and revenue.

“These proposals will ensure that doesn’t happen, providing new protection and support for people of all ages. However, we don’t want to throw the baby out with the bathwater, which is why we will allow businesses to continue to provide the age-specific services that many people of all ages benefit from every day.”

Age discrimination in the workplace has been illegal since 2006. The decision to extend this ban to the provision of goods and services follows the announcement earlier this year that the government plans to phase out the default retirement age, which can be used to force people to retire at 65 even if they don’t want to.

The new rules will apply to services provided by the public sector as well as by private companies.

Full details of the plans for exceptions are contained in a consultation that was published today. The Government is seeking views from people of all ages, as well as those working in relevant industries.

The consultation will run for three months.

Source: Government Equalities Office

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