The Civil Partnership Act 2004 and the Disability Discrimination Act 2005

As of 5 December 2005 the Civil Partnership Act 2004 (Amendments to Subordinate Legislation) Order 2005 will bring all subordinate legislation into line with the 2004 Act. The 2004 Act gives civil partners the benefits from protection similar to that previously enjoyed by spouses - i.e. benefits under pensions, inheritance etc.

Also, as of 5 December 2005, there are changes to the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 via the Disability Discrimination Act 2005. The 2005 Act widens the list of recognised disabilites to include HIV, MS and certain forms of progressive cancer from the point of diagnosis.