---

Equality Bill

My Lords, I am very grateful to the Leader of the House for her response to this debate, and to the noble Baroness, Lady Morris, for indicating—I think this was unanimous in the House—that the object of these amendments is to show our abhorrence and to ensure that there is adequate protection for the victims of bullying at school or elsewhere on the grounds of sexual orientation or transgender status. It has been useful to hear that unanimous view expressed and to have placed on the record the Government’s belief that there is no gap and that the protection is adequate. I wondered why, if it was not required for sexual orientation, it is required for race—I am sure there is a reason—but it has been worth while to set it out clearly and for the record, as I said. It has also been worth while to hear about the guidance that has been issued and to hear that not to comply with it could open up school authorities to claims of discrimination. I am also grateful for confirmation that the Government will support Amendment 34, so when we come to it I will make every endeavour to move it. In the mean time, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment 18 withdrawn. Amendment 19 not moved. Clause 29 : Provision of services, etc. Amendment 20 Clause 29 : Provision of services, etc. Amendment 20 Moved by