Reform UK’s Plan to Repeal the Equality Act Threatens Pregnancy Protections

Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, says it will repeal the Equality Act 2010 “on day one” of a new government. Equality spokesperson Suella Braverman proposes replacing it with a “Workplace Fairness Act” that would treat people as individuals rather than as protected groups. The party has not disclosed which safeguards the new law would retain.

The Independent

The Equality Act 2010 merged earlier anti-discrimination laws and makes discrimination on protected characteristics—such as pregnancy and maternity—unlawful. It requires employers to treat pregnant workers and new mothers fairly, prohibiting dismissal, harassment or disadvantage linked to pregnancy, related illness or maternity leave.

The Independent

Labour Party analysis, using 2024 live-birth data (640 000) and a 72 % female employment rate, estimates up to half a million pregnant women could lose workplace protection annually. The Women’s Budget Group reports pregnancy-related discrimination as the most common employment-law issue women raise.

The Independent

Reform UK claims the Equality Act creates “unfair and divisive outcomes” and that a Workplace Fairness Act would “restore fairness, protect women, and rebuild public trust.” Policy chief Dr James Orr links the proposal to a pro-natalist agenda addressing the UK’s falling birth rate.

The Independent

Charity Pregnant Then Screwed warned scrapping the act would “wipe out decades of progress” and leave half a million pregnant women without safeguards. The Women’s Budget Group called the change a step backwards, noting that Black, Asian, minority-ethnic and disabled women face compounded discrimination. Labour chair Anna Turley said Reform is “stripping away women’s rights” and cited Farage’s earlier remarks devaluing women’s labour.

The Independent

• “Britain is being ‘ripped apart by diversity, equality and inclusion’ policies.” — Suella Braverman, Reform UK equality spokesperson

The Independent

• “Scrapping the Equality Act is an unthinkable proposal. This is not some meaningless piece of bureaucracy; it is the means by which everyone is supported to work and participate in society on an equal and fair basis.” — Rachel Grocott, CEO, Pregnant Then Screwed

The Independent

• “The Equality Act 2010 is a landmark piece of legislation and remains one of the most important tools women have to challenge discrimination at work.” — Erin Mansell, Deputy Director, Women’s Budget Group

The Independent

• “Reform UK will deliver the most pro-family government in a generation with expectant and new mothers supported and celebrated at every stage.” — Reform UK spokesman

The Independent

If Reform UK wins a parliamentary majority, the repeal could be enacted immediately after the election, likely sparking legislative debate and legal challenges from trade unions and advocacy groups.

The Independent