The latest report from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), entitled "How Fair is Britain?", is a detailed study into the current levels of discrimination in all seven formally recognised areas of discrimination as set out in law.
The law as it stands protects against discrimination on the grounds of age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation and trangender status.
The report found that while in general public attitudes have changed and become much more tolerant of diversity, there are disturbing signs that the public perceives that racial and religious prejudice are on the rise.
Perhaps more worryingly, the report also stated that with some groups – most notably transgendered people – there are significant gaps in knowledge and data available on them, which makes it difficult to assess and then put in place measures to counter discrimination against these groups.
Chair of the EHRC Trevor Phillips commented: "This review holds up to the mirror fairness in Britain. It is the most complete picture of its kind ever compiled.
"It shows that we are a people who have moved on light years in our attitudes to all kinds of human difference, and in our desire to be a truly fair society – but that we are still a country where our achievements haven't yet caught up with our aspirations."
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