BR manager claims unfair dismissal after sex-pest allegations
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A BRITISH Rail manager was sacked after women colleagues claimed he touched them and made lewd comments, an industrial tribunal was told yesterday.
One married colleague was so repulsed by his behaviour that she resigned, the hearing in Leeds was told, and an 18-year- old, whom he called 'Cherub', broke down and told a personnel manager she wanted to quit because of him.
The 31-year-old manager, who cannot be named under industrial tribunal regulations, is claiming unfair dismissal against the British Railways Board. He was dismissed last September after a disciplinary hearing following sexual harassment allegations by the two women.
The tribunal was told he asked the women to accompany him on overnight business trips. gave them presents and invited them to his hotel room for drinks.
He encouraged the 18-year-old to apply to be his personal assistant, and when she was given the job he told her: 'I hope we'll have some fun together.'
The married colleague, who worked in the same department for Regional Railways North East in York, had to go on frequent overnight business trips with him and claimed he pestered her continually.
She said that at a conference in Bristol he banged on the door of her room for two and a half hours. She tried to tell him she found his behaviour repulsive but he told her 'don't be so stupid' and touched her up and made unnecessary stops on their journey home.
The hearing continues today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments