Rights, equality and responsibilities
The European Convention on Human Rights was signed by the UK in 1950. Its rights are protected in UK law by the Human Rights Act 1998. Rights include the right to life, prohibition of torture, prohibition of slavery and forced labour, the right to liberty and security, the right to a fair trial, freedom of thought, conscience and religion, and freedom of expression (speech).
UK laws protect people from discrimination because of age, disability, sex, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sexuality or marital status (the Equality Act 2010 in England, Wales and Scotland).
Domestic violence is a serious crime. Anyone who is violent towards their partner — whether they are a man or a woman, married or living together — can be prosecuted. Forced marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM) are illegal.
People in the UK pay taxes, including income tax (on wages, self-employment profits, pensions and some benefits) and National Insurance contributions, which help pay for the state pension, benefits and the NHS. Income tax is usually deducted automatically by employers through PAYE (Pay As You Earn). Self-employed people complete a self-assessment tax return.
You must be at least 17 to drive a car or motorcycle and must have a driving licence. Car owners must have valid motor insurance. Cars over three years old must have an MOT test every year. In Northern Ireland, newly qualified drivers must display an “R” plate for one year after passing their test.
Key facts
- European Convention on Human Rights — UK signed in 1950.
- Human Rights Act 1998 brings these rights into UK law.
- Equality Act 2010 protects against discrimination.
- Domestic violence, forced marriage and FGM are crimes.
- National Insurance helps pay for the state pension and the NHS.
- Drive from 17; MOT for vehicles over 3 years old; motor insurance is compulsory.
Important dates
| 1950 | UK signs the European Convention on Human Rights |
| 1998 | Human Rights Act |
| 2010 | Equality Act |
Memory tips
- “17 to drive, 18 to vote and drink.”
Practice questions
1. Is the following statement true or false? “Domestic violence is a criminal offence in the UK.”
- True
- False
Show answer
True. Anyone who is violent towards their partner can be prosecuted, whether married or living together.
2. What is the minimum age to drive a car in the UK?
- 16
- 17
- 18
- 21
Show answer
You must be at least 17 to drive a car or motorcycle.
3. In which year did the UK sign the European Convention on Human Rights?
- 1945
- 1950
- 1973
- 1998
Show answer
The UK was one of the first countries to sign the Convention, in 1950.
4. Which TWO are rights protected by the European Convention on Human Rights?
- The right to a fair trial
- The right to free housing
- Freedom of thought, conscience and religion
- The right to a job
Show answer
The Convention protects rights such as a fair trial and freedom of thought, conscience and religion.
5. What do National Insurance contributions help pay for?
- Only the army
- The state pension and the NHS
- Local roads only
- The monarchy
Show answer
National Insurance contributions help pay for the state pension, benefits and the NHS.
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