Government 'respects' Supreme Court decision to end employment tribunal fees

Fees for bringing action against an employer in a tribunal have come to an end, after the Supreme Court ruled them unlawful this morning.

The government would now pay back the £32m in fees it has collected since introducing the fees of up to £1,200 in 2013.

At the time, the Conservatives said the fees were intended to reduce the number of cases being brought with malicious intent, or with weak evidence.

However, the Supreme Court found the fees were indirectly discriminative, as a higher proportion of women would be bringing discrimination cases in front of tribunals.

It also noted some cases may not be heard, as the fees would mean any financial reward would be pointless.

Justice minister Dominic Raab said the government respected the court’s decision, and would stop collecting the fees “immediately” before reimbursing claimants.

“"We respect the judgement and we are going to take it fully on board and we are going to comply with it.”

The decision was welcomed by trade unions, with TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady describing the decision as a “massive win” for British workers.

“Too many low-paid workers couldn't afford to uphold their rights at work, even when they've faced harassment or have been sacked unfairly.”