The report by the Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration
10 May 2012
In response to the Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration's report on the conduct of passenger searches and the use of arrest powers in Gatwick North Terminal, the Equality and Human Rights Commission's Chief Executive Officer Mark Hammond said:
“This report raises serious concerns about discrimination against passengers and the protection of their human rights. We expect the UK Borders Agency to rectify this and are ready to work with them to help them achieve the necessary changes and improvements. If there is no progress over the next 12 months, then we will have to consider if enforcement action may be necessary.
"We are pleased John Vine's team is taking seriously equality and human rights matters. We look forward to continue working together."
Ends
For more press information contact the Commission’s media office on 020 3117 0255, out of hours 07767 272 818.
For general enquiries please contact the Commission’s national helpline: England 0845 604 6610, Scotland 0845 604 5510 or Wales 0845 604 8810.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission has previously raised concerns about the appropriate use of body scanners in UK airports, including issues around the selection of passengers. Read the press release or the submission to the Department for Transport's consultation.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is a statutory body established under the Equality Act 2006, which 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, and encourages compliance with the Human Rights Act. It also gives advice and guidance to businesses, the voluntary and public sectors, and to individuals.