No questions relating to political or religious opinions or affiliations, or any basis listed in subdivision (a) of Section 12940 of the Government Code, as those bases are defined in Sections 12926 and 12926.1 of the Government Code, shall be asked of any applicant, or any candidate whose name has been certified for appointment, nor shall any discrimination be exercised therefor, except as otherwise provided in Section 12940 of the Government Code.