Which Act introduced the protected characteristics such as Age and Race?

• A. Equality Act 2010
• B. Data Protection Act 1998
• C. Employment Rights Act 1996
• D. Animal Welfare Act 2006

Answer: (A)

This topic examines anti-discrimination law and the framework that protects people from unfair treatment. The Act introduced protected characteristics, including Age and Race, and made it unlawful to treat someone unfavorably because of those traits in areas like employment, education, and access to services. It brings together previous discrimination laws into one comprehensive statute, clarifying which characteristics are protected and outlining the duties of employers and service providers to ensure equal treatment, including safeguards against direct and indirect discrimination as well as harassment and victimisation.

For context, the Data Protection Act focuses on how personal data is collected and used, not on protected traits. The Employment Rights Act addresses overall worker rights rather than which characteristics are protected. The Animal Welfare Act concerns the welfare of animals, not human protection against discrimination.