Changes to the Tribunal system
In a speech today George Osborne set out the Government`s"activist economic strategy to deal with the country`s debts,promote growth and spread prosperity". As part of the Government`sstrategy he identified a number of new measures to support businessand help rebalance the economy. Two of the measures related to thereform of the existing Employment Tribunal system.
Fees:
From April 2013 the Government will introduce fees forEmployment Tribunals. Currently there is no charge for submissionof a Tribunal complaint (unlike in the civil and family Courts).Further details in relation to the proposed fees have yet to bedecided. The Government is proposing to consult on the level andstructure of the fees ensuring remissions are available for thelowest paid.
Qualification Period:
Currently the qualification period for submission of anunfair dismissal complaint to an Employment Tribunal is one year.From April 2012 employees will only be able to make a claim aftertwo years of continuous employment. This reform will not affect"Day one" rights - such as the right not to be discriminatedagainst.
This article is for general guidance only. It provides useful information in a concise form. Action should not be taken without obtaining specific legal advice.