Ministers are considering a merger between three major anti-discrimination organisations, it is reported.

The Department of Trade and Industry is said to be contemplating proposals to establish a Commission for Equality and Human Rights, combining the work of the Commission for Racial Equality, the Disability Rights Commission and the Equal Opportunities Commission.

Supporters of such a move argue it would help those who suffer from discrimination on a number of grounds.

The new body would cover issues including gender, race, age, sexuality, gender and religion, the BBC reported on Wednesday.

However, those working within the existing organisations argue that victims would lose access to some of the expertise currently available.

"There would be a lot of anxiety among the discriminated groups," said Bert Massie of the Disability Rights Commission.

But the move was welcomed by industry leaders.

"Bringing all the equality bodies under one roof is good news," said Susan Anderson, director of human resources policy at the Confederation of British Industry.

"Businesses will be pleased there is to be one place to go for advice on all equality issues.

"But the new body must win the confidence of business. It needs to develop a constructive relationship with business where education, rather than litigation is the key.

"We urge the government not to rush this merger. It must take into account the views of business, the existing bodies and the people they represent."

The Liberal Democrats were more cautious in offering their support.

"We welcome the government's decision to set up a new commission, but some basic conditions must be met if it is to be effective," said human rights lawyer Lord Lester of Herne Hill.

"Its leadership must be chosen to ensure that it is completely independent of government and its resources must be sufficient to tackle unjustifiable discrimination wherever it exists.

"The commission's important task in promoting a culture of respect for human rights must not weaken action to tackle discrimination. There must be no levelling down of existing protection."

A spokesman at the DTI refused to confirm or deny the reports.

"If there is an announcement to be made it will be made in due course," he said.