Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, whether she plans to outlaw sexual harassment from third parties.

The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Bill, introduced by Wera Hobhouse MP, will deliver these two legislative commitments. We are aware of concerns raised by some Parliamentarians about the balance the Bill strikes between protecting free speech and tackling harassment. However, the Government remains committed to these measures: we continue to support the Bill and are engaging noble Lords to reassure them on these points.

Ultimately, as the Bill has now passed to the House of Lords, progress is now in the hands of the Lords. I and my officials are in regular contact with the Lords and Commons Whips offices in relation to this Bill.