London: In a significant victory for Gypsies and Travellers, the Court of Appeal has rejected the Government’s use of a “discriminatory” planning definition that determines who gets to live on a Traveller site. The court decision, which was handed down on the 31st October 2022, nearly three months after the Court of Appeal sat, has determined that the Government’s planning definition of Gypsies and Travellers (known as ‘gypsy status’) is unlawful and breaks equalities laws.
Campaigners say that the planning definition, which was changed to its current form in 2015, discriminates against elderly and disabled Gypsies and Travellers because to get ‘gypsy status’ you have to prove that you are able to continue to travel to look for work. No exception to that rule is given if you are disabled and/or elderly.
Chief Executive Officer of London Gypsies and Travellers Debby Kennett said: “We are proud to be involved in such a significant victory, not only for Lisa Smith and her family, but for Gypsies and Travellers who have been campaigning against this discriminatory policy since 2014. This case both exposes and recognises the discrimination Gypsies and Travellers face in the planning system.”
“The judgement recognises that protected characteristics are protected for a reason, and sheds light on policies and legislation that have attacked and stripped back the cultural traditions of Gypsy and Traveller people like Ms Smith,” added Abbie Kirkby.
Read more: Travellers Times, https://rb.gy/2k695y
