Employment Tribunals – New Rules of Procedure (Part II)

In addition to the contentious proposals to introduce fees in Employment Tribunals, the new rules of procedure make many other changes.  These include increased case management powers for Employment Judges and provisions to sift cases following the receipt of a response to encourage Employment Judges to give early consideration as to whether, on the basis of the paperwork, either the claim or response should be struck out in full or in part or, if the case should proceed, to determine appropriate case management directions.   

These proposals generally seem sensible and reflect the good practice which has already been followed in some Tribunals.  The question is whether in those Tribunals where Tribunals have not been able to process claims swiftly and effectively, they will have the resource to deliver these new procedures as, if not, it is difficult to see how the system will become more efficient and user friendly.   

For more information with regard to the changes contact our employment team on employment@tolhurstfisher.com.