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The Equality and Human Rights Commission has appointed Agnes Fletcher, a leading figure in the disability movement, to the role of independent reviewer of its Disability Committee.

A widely respected expert on equality legislation, policy and practice; former director of the Disability Rights Commission and adviser to government; Agnes will undertake the statutory review of the Committee required by the Equality Act 2006.

The Equality Act made provision for the review after the Committee had been in operation for five years, to determine how long it should continue as a statutory body. The review will include a consultation with disabled people across England, Scotland and Wales.

The Commission's Disability Committee has decision making powers on the Commission's work in relation to those matters which solely concern disability, and the Commission seeks the advice of the Committee on all matters which relate to disability in a significant way.

Agnes starts work in November and will report back to the Commission’s board by the end of March 2013. Having considered her recommendation, the Commission will then report to the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, its sponsor department. An amendment will be made accordingly to the Equality Act 2006.

In finalising the Review’s terms of reference, Agnes will confirm the criteria that she will use to inform her independent recommendation. These will be published on the Commission’s website in November.

Agnes Fletcher said:

“The effective operation of the Equality and Human Rights Commission is fundamental to progress on equality and human rights in Britain. I am both challenged and pleased to have such an important role in advising the Commission on its future governance structure.”

Baroness Margaret Prosser, Interim Chair of the Commission said:

“I am delighted that someone with Agnes’ commitment and experience in the world of disability has been appointed to this important role and I know she will carry out her duties with the necessary rigour. I look forward to receiving her report.”

For more press information contact the Commission’s media office on 020 3117 0255, out of hours 07767 272 818.

Notes to Editors

• Agnes was formerly a Director of Communications at the Disability Rights Commission, a Vice-Chair of RADAR, an external member of the Cross-Government Equality Delivery Board Member, and a member of the Government’s Disability Employment Advisory Committee. In addition to various equality and diversity consulting roles, Agnes is currently Trustee, POWhER and Shape Arts.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission is a statutory body established under the Equality Act 2006. It took over the responsibilities of Commission for Racial Equality, Disability Rights Commission and Equal Opportunities Commission.  It is the independent advocate for equality and human rights in Britain.  It aims to reduce inequality, eliminate discrimination, strengthen good relations between people, and promote and protect human rights.  The Commission enforces equality legislation on age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation. It encourages compliance with the Human Rights Act and is recognised by the UN as an ‘A status’ national human rights institution.  It also gives advice and guidance to businesses, the voluntary and public sectors, and to individuals.