Workers justice

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It is now open season for unscrupulous employers to bully and intimidate their employees.
From today, workers will be charged upfront fees for filing an employment tribunal case. Workers will be charged one fee to bring a claim, another fee if it is heard and a further charge if they want to appeal the decision. Smaller claims such as unpaid wages will cost £160 to lodge and another £230 if they proceed. Larger ones like unfair dismissal will cost an initial £250 and then another £950. This is in addition to the two years qualification period of being the employment of your boss.

TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said: "By charging up-front fees for harassment and abuse claims, the Government is making it easier for employers to get away with the most appalling behaviour. These reforms are part of a wider campaign to get rid of workers' basic rights at work. Its only achievement will be to price vulnerable people out of justice."

Unite chief Len McCluskey said "Seeking redress for unfair dismissal and discrimination and other injustices in the workplace is a fundamental human right - but now ministers are putting up insurmountable financial hurdles for working people in pursuit of justice".

Lawyers suggested bosses would be less likely to obey their legal duties because there will be less risk of a challenge by staff. Elizabeth George from Leigh Day said: "This sends a very dangerous message to employers", adding it would penalise pregnant women, the sick, disabled and elderly.

When you lose your job, you lose your income as well, so where are you supposed to find these fees from? This will mean those that need the greatest protection - poorly-paid workers - will be the most vulnerable. Justice is only available for those who can afford it now and one more reason to join the protection of a trade union.