11.8 Marc Bush asked whether it would be possible to scope out an extension to the Equality Act 2010 on mental health. Officers commented that Department of Health and Department of Work and Pensions officers had already been engaged and that the Commission was pressing for implementation of the duty. However, on balance the Commission felt that amending the disability protection in the Equality Act 2010 was not necessarily a positive step as there was a risk of reducing protection. 11.9 Members commented on the forthcoming Repeal Bill, noting that the translation of EU legislation into UK legislation might be confused and that the Commission needed to have a strategy in place. Officers confirmed that the Commission had a five point Brexit plan and would be working with key stakeholders, particularly disability forums, to align our messages and then drafting amendments to the bill. Action Melanie Field: to share the 5 point Brexit plan and – details of draft amendments to the bill with members Young commented that the upcoming Social Security (Scotland) Bill had some positive principles that the Commission may find noteworthy. Chipchase commented that she was conducting two pieces of research around disability, on the mechanics of how people are re-deployed and on the lived experience of disabled people in employment. Action Graham Wheaton: to share Committee’s comments with – relevant officers 12 Any Other Business 12.1 No other business matters were raised. 12.2 Rachel Perkins thanked attendees and noted that the next Committee meeting date would be advised in the near future.
11.8 Marc Bush asked whether it would be possible to scope out an extension to the Equality Act 2010 on mental health. Officers commented that Department of Health and Department of Work and Pensions officers had already been engaged and that the Commission was pressing for implementation of the duty. However, on balance the Commission felt that amending the disability protection in the Equality Act 2010 was not necessarily a positive step as there was a risk of reducing protection. 11.9 Members commented on the forthcoming Repeal Bill, noting that the translation of EU legislation into UK legislation might be confused and that the Commission needed to have a strategy in place. Officers confirmed that the Commission had a five point Brexit plan and would be working with key stakeholders, particularly disability forums, to align our messages and then drafting amendments to the bill. Action – Melanie Field: to share the 5 point Brexit plan and details of draft amendments to the bill with members Young commented that the upcoming Social Security (Scotland) Bill had some positive principles that the Commission may find noteworthy. Chipchase commented that she was conducting two pieces of research around disability, on the mechanics of how people are re-deployed and on the lived experience of disabled people in employment. Action – Graham Wheaton: to share Committee’s comments with relevant officers 12 Any Other Business 12.1 No other business matters were raised. 12.2 Rachel Perkins thanked attendees and noted that the next Committee meeting date would be advised in the near future.