The EOC and Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) have the following duties, which are broadly similar:
• to work towards the elimination of discrimination;
• to promote equality of opportunity between men and women and racial groups
and to promote good race relations;
• to keep under review the working of the equal opportunities legislation and
propose amendments as necessary.
The Commissions are also granted various powers:
• to assist applicants in bringing complaints of discrimination;
• to undertake or assist research and education activities;
• to issue Codes of Practice. There is now a Code of Practice on equal pay;
• to conduct formal investigations for any purpose connected with the carrying
out of their duties. Following such investigations, the Commission may issue a non-discrimination notice.