Claimant v Gatwick Airport Limited

Outcome

Facts

The claimant was a Security Team Manager at Gatwick Airport. In July 2023 he received a final written warning for making inappropriate sexual comments to a female colleague. In October 2023, he was alleged to have made further inappropriate comments of a sexual nature to another female colleague, Maisie Scotting, about how she looked in black uniform and that all men at Gatwick would be annoyed with him for ordering different trousers for her. Following investigation and disciplinary process, the claimant was summarily dismissed for gross misconduct. His appeal was unsuccessful.

Decision

The tribunal found the dismissal was fair. The respondent had a genuine belief based on reasonable grounds following a reasonable investigation that the claimant had committed misconduct. The tribunal was satisfied the investigation was reasonable, preferring Ms Scotting's evidence to the claimant's. Dismissal fell within the range of reasonable responses given the live final written warning for similar conduct, the claimant's management position, and the serious nature of the misconduct found.

Practical note

Legal authorities cited