UNISON has won a hearing investigating the need for a judicial review into the introduction of employment tribunal fees.
Despite losing its original claim last week in writing, it has been revealed that the trade union successfully argued its case at an oral hearing, with the Royal Courts of Justice approving the hearing for October.
Until this verdict is delivered however, fees will still need to be paid for all cases lodged, but will be refunded if the practice is ruled unlawful.
Commenting on the decision, Unison General Secretary, Dave Prentis, said:
“The timing could not be more critical, but today we are one step closer to justice for workers.”
Mr Prentis went on to say:
“I am pleased that UNISON has been successful in getting permission for a Judicial Review hearing. The introduction of punitive fees for taking a claim to an employment tribunal, would give the green light to unscrupulous employers to ride roughshod over already basic workers’ rights.”
“The Government should not put a price on justice. It is disappointing that in the interim fees will still be paid, but we will be making a strong case for a Judicial Review in October because we believe that these fees are unfair and should be dropped.”