High Court rejects UNISON tribunal fees judicial review

It has been reported that the High Court rejected on paper an application for judicial review by UNISON of the new fees for employment tribunals.

The fees, set to be introduced on 29 July 2013, mean that claims for unpaid wages, holiday pay and redundancy would be classed as ‘level one’ and would require an issue fee of £160 and a hearing fee of £200.

Meanwhile, ‘level two’ claims, which will include unfair dismissal and discrimination would require an issue fee of £250 and a hearing fee of £950.

Despite the decision, UNISON said that it is renewing the application and will seek an oral hearing, while applying for a stay on the introduction of fees.

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Commenting, Dave Prentis, UNISON General Secretary, said:

“This early decision is disappointing but UNISON is committed to continuing our challenge for a judicial review.

“The Government’s plans to ration access to justice by introducing fees into Employment Tribunals and Employment Appeal Tribunals are unjust and discriminatory.”