The Petition of the National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups declares that there should be discussion, held in conjunction with Romany Gypsy people of English, Scots or Welsh origin and Irish Travellers, to draft a more useful definition with regard to 'gypsy' status, for the purposes of planning law. The present definition puts Gypsy women in an unequal position as carers for their family, or left widowed or divorced. Recent case-law shows that this is arising as an issue. The present definition is not a fair or equal one under the
Equality Act 2010.

In light of the drafting of the new National Planning Policy Framework and the new Planning Policy Statement, this is an ideal time to look
at this issue, which is of great detriment to Gypsy women who care for
their children as opposed to pursuing careers of travelling for work
purposes.

The Petitioners request the House of Commons to urge the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, together with the Equalities Minister, to discuss this matter urgently with, among others, representatives of Romany Gypsies and Travellers and roma

The Petitioners remain:
Signed by Gypsy women, their representatives and supporters