Source · Select Committees · Women and Equalities Committee
Recommendation 11
11
Deferred
Implement Law Commission’s recommendations on improving hate crime legislation in the next parliamentary session.
Recommendation
The Government should implement the Law Commission’s recommendations on improving hate crime legislation in the next Session of this Parliament. (Recommendation, Paragraph 68) Discrimination in public life
Government Response Summary
The government is considering the Law Commission's recommendations, has taken some steps, and commissioned an independent review due to report by spring 2026, at which point the Home Secretary will consider the findings.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
37. The Government recognises the importance of ensuring that hate crime legislation is effective, proportionate and consistent, and it is a key area of focus for the Home Office. We are considering the 34 recommendations made by the Law Commission. 38. We have already taken steps on implementation where appropriate. For example, an amendment has been tabled to the Crime and Policing Bill to extend aggravated offences, so they cover all existing protected characteristics including sex in hate crime laws. 39. To complement this, in October 2025, the Home Secretary commissioned an independent review of public order and hate crime legislation, led by Lord Ken Macdonald of River Glaven KC. The review will consider whether the current framework is effective and proportionate and is due to report to the Home Secretary by spring 2026. 40. The Home Secretary will consider Lord Macdonald’s findings, including whether legislative change is recommended or further practical steps can be taken to ensure the existing framework is being used to maximum effect.