<P> Although the act was never going to change the law with regard to churches from its existing position, nor change the binding European Union law which covers many more Roman Catholics than those living in the United Kingdom, and although the position had been spelled out in the High Court in R (Amicus) v Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, a small number of Roman Catholic bishops in England and Wales made claims that they might in future be prosecuted under the Equality Act 2010 for refusing to allow women, married men, transsexual people, and gay people into the priesthood . This claim was rejected by the government . A spokesman said an exemption in the law "covers ministers of religion such as Catholic priests" and a document released by the Government Equalities Office states that "the Equality Bill will not change the existing legal position regarding churches and employment". The legislation was also criticised by Anglican clergy . </P> <P> Certain employment is exempted from the act, including: </P> <Ul> <Li> Priests, monks, nuns, rabbis and ministers of religion . </Li> <Li> Actors and models in the film, television and fashion industries (a British Chinese actress for a specific role, for instance). </Li> <Li> Special employment training programmes aimed at ethnic minorities, ex-offenders, young adults, the long term unemployed, or people with physical or learning disabilities . </Li> <Li> Employment where there are cultural sensitivities (such as a documentary where male victims of domestic violence need to be interviewed by a male researcher, or a gay men's domestic violence helpline). </Li> <Li> Where safety or operational efficiency could be jeopardised . </Li> <Li> Political parties who run all women or all - gay shortlists . </Li> <Li> Local support staff who work in embassies and high commissions, by virtue of diplomatic immunity . </Li> <Li> Where national security could be jeopardised . </Li> <Li> Circus performers </Li> </Ul> <Li> Priests, monks, nuns, rabbis and ministers of religion . </Li>

Example of rule of law under the equality act