2 May 2008 - The EU has abandoned plans for a far-reaching anti-discrimination directive that would have outlawed homophobia and ageism and guaranteed freedom of religion.

Fearing a revolt from conservative countries, European Commissioners have backtracked on earlier proposals, deciding to narrow the focus of proposed anti-discrimination legislation to protecting disabled people. Racial and sexual discrimination are already outlawed.

South-East England’s Green Party MEP Caroline Lucas condemned the move. She said: “Frankly I am appalled: not just that millions of LGBT and older people around Europe will continue to suffer from state-sanctioned persecution, but that the British Government has failed to stand up for them.

“It is no surprise that the right-wing governments of several EU countries are opposed to guaranteeing the human rights of their citizens when it comes to their sexuality and religious beliefs – but that the supposedly liberal democracies like the UK chose not to put up a effective fight over this is unforgivable."

Dr Lucas has backed calls from Green Party colleagues on the European Parliament’s Human Rights and Social Affairs Committee for a review of the decision – and if necessary a completely new anti-discrimination directive that truly guarantees the human rights of all EU citizens.

ENDS

For more information please contact Ben on 07973 823358 or email ben@greenmeps.org.uk.