Explanatory note

This Order appoints 31st May 2002 as the day on which the code of practice containing the Commission for Racial Equality’s guidance in relation to the performance of the duties under section 71(1) and (2) of the Race Relations Act 1976 (as amended by the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000) is to come into effect. The duty under section 71(1), which applies to certain specified public authorities, is a general duty to have due regard, in the exercise of their functions, to the need to eliminate unlawful racial discrimination and to promote equality of opportunity and good relations between persons of different racial groups. The duties under section 71(2) are duties imposed on certain of those authorities for the purpose of ensuring the better performance of the general duty.

Copies of the code of practice can be obtained from:

• The Commission for Racial Equality, Elliott House, 10/12 Allington Street, London SW1E 5EH.