The second edition of this widely-acclaimed book about the Equality Act 2010 by one of its leading architects brings forward the story of how and why this historic legislation was enacted and what it means, to cover the first four years of its implementation by the Coalition Government and in the courts. This includes an assessment of amendments to the legislation, the reduction in the powers and budget of the Equality and Human Rights Commission and the imposition of tribunal fees, as well as a discussion of possible future directions of equality law and policy.

From the Foreword to the first edition by Lord Lester of Herne Hill QC 'This is no ordinary law book, and its author is no ordinary lawyer. The book, like the Equality Act 2010 which it describes and discusses, is a major landmark in the long struggle for effective legal protection of equal rights and equal treatment without direct or indirect discrimination. It places the law in its political, economic and social context and traces its often contested and controversial legal history.'.

Sir Bob Hepple QC, FBA is Emeritus Master of Clare College and Emeritus Professor of Law in the University of Cambridge. He is Honorary President of the Industrial Law Society and of the Equal Rights Trust. In 2013 the international Labour Law Research Network gave him an award for distinguished career contribution to labour law, and in 2014 he was awarded the South African Order of Luthuli (Gold) for his exceptional contribution to the struggle for human rights and democracy.