Professor Anna Lawson appointed member of the Disability Committee of the Equality and Human Rights Commission

The Equality and Human Rights Commission,which has a statutory mandate to challenge discrimination, and to protect and promote human rights,has appointed seven new members to its Disability Committee.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission, which has a statutory mandate to challenge discrimination, and to protect and promote human rights, has appointed seven new members to its Disability Committee, including Anna Lawson, a professor in the School of Law at the University of Leeds.

The Disability Committee is a statutory decision-making committee which plays a key role in the Commission’s governance and it performs crucial work in tackling discrimination and promoting equality of opportunity for disabled people.  Significant aspects of its work over the next year will be contributing to development of the Commission’s next strategic plan, supporting delivery of “Is Britain Fairer?” - the Commission’s periodic review of Britain’s progress on equality and human rights, and informing the UK’s forthcoming examination under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Disabled People.

Professor Alastair Mullis, Head of the School of Law, University of Leeds said:

“Professor Lawson is one of the leading disability law scholars in the world. Her work in the field has been academically ground-breaking, as well as having significant practical impact on the lives of disabled people.  The School of Law is immensely proud of her appointment which further enhances the longstanding reputation of the University (through the work of the School of Law and the Centre for Disability Studies) for active engagement in processes of disability policy and law reform in collaboration with disabled people's organisations.“

Chris Holmes, Disability Commissioner and Chair of the Disability Committee said:

“Fairness, dignity and respect are values we all share, and we are delighted to welcome the new members of the Disability Committee to help the Commission’s important work to improve the lives of disabled people. They are all strong and experienced leaders and bring a wealth of talent. They will support the Commission in developing its strategic vision of a fairer and more inclusive Britain.

Read more on The Equality and Human Rights Commission website.