Unison, R (on the application of) v The Lord Chancellor & Anor [2014]

The High Court has rejected UNISON’s application to judicially review the imposition of fees in GB employment tribunals. The Employment Tribunals and Employment Appeal Tribunal Fees Order 2013 brought in fees for claimants issuing tribunal claims and fees for those cases that proceed to hearing. Fees apply to two types of claims – A and B. Type A claims attract a smaller fee and involve simpler claims. Type B claims attract higher fees and include more complex issues, such as unfair dismissal and discrimination claims. The union sought to have the fees regime declared unlawful and discriminatory.

Although the union lost, the High Court has not closed the door on future challenges being