ABSTRACT
The principle of non-discrimination is a fundamental principle in European Community law. The Community has taken a number of initiatives to further this principle and here we limit ourselves to a consideration of the three most important Directives that further this principle in the field of employment. Alongside the Act is the Employment Statutory Code of Practice published by the Equality and Human Rights Commission. The Code explains its own status in law: The Code does not impose legal obligations. Nor is it an authoritative statement of the law; only the tribunals and the courts can provide such authority. The possibility of discrimination by association does not apply to the protected characteristics of marriage or civil partnership or pregnancy and maternity. Section 108 Equality Act also provides that discrimination or harassment which arises in connection with a relationship that used to exist is also to be treated as prohibited conduct.
