ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the development of legislation specifically designed to address discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and discusses the ways in which this has been shaped by religion. It focuses on the ways in which religious groups and individuals have sought to limit the scope of sexual orientation equality law and secure exceptions from it. The chapter examines the discursive strategies employed to encourage the inclusion of bespoke provisions in legislation to afford religious organisations exceptions from law prohibiting discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. It also presents legislation relating to employment, before going on to consider goods, services, facilities and premises. The Church of England's response to the draft Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations (EESOR) 2003 sought to widen the scope of the exception for genuine occupational requirement in respect of sexual orientation. The chapter finally shows how a similar discourse was marshalled and extended in respect of law reform relating to same-sex partnership recognition.
