Some 7,000 workers a month are heading to employment tribunals, down from 16,000 in 2012-13 just before the fees of up to £1,200 were introduced, TUC said.

 

It found that unfair dismissal claims have fallen by 73 per cent, discrimination cases on the grounds of sex by 71 per cent, race cases by 58 per cent and disability cases by 54 per cent.

 

 

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General secretary Frances O’Grady said: “These figures show a huge drop in workers seeking justice when they’ve been unfairly treated. Now bosses know they can get away with it, discrimination at work can flourish unchecked and people can be sacked without good reason.

“The evidence is there for all to see. These fees – of up to £1200, even if you’re on the minimum wage – are pricing out thousands each month from pursuing cases.

“Theresa May has repeatedly said she wants to govern for ordinary working people. Here is a perfect opportunity. She could reverse employment tribunal fees, and make sure workers can challenge bad employers in court.”  

“The evidence is there for all to see. These fees – of up to £1,200, even if you’re on the minimum wage – are pricing out thousands each month from pursuing cases.”

 

But a spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice said it was “right that those who use our tribunals should contribute to the £71m cost of running the service.”