A solicitor who specialises in discrimination cases is warning bosses that world cup banter between staff shouldn’t “cross the line into racial discrimination.
Peter Nicholson, of Nelsons solicitors, which specialises in discrimination cases, was speaking ahead of this evenings World Cup game between England and Wales.
According to The Times:
Employers have been warned to be careful that “banter” between England and Wales fans does not turn into racial discrimination as the home nations meet in the World Cup tonight.
Gareth Southgate’s England team take on Wales, managed by Rob Page, in their final group game in Qatar to see who qualifies for the knockout phase of the tournament. England need only to avoid a four-goal defeat, while Wales must win and hope that Iran and USA draw in the other group match.
Peter Nicholson, of Nelsons solicitors, which specialises in discrimination cases, says that companies may face legal action if rivalry between employees becomes too strong.
“Not all staff members who are football fans may support England and workplace banter may develop between staff members who support opposing nations, particularly as Wales has qualified for the tournament and will be facing England,” he said.
“It is essential that this does not cross the line into racial discrimination — based on nationality — and employers should make it clear that any discriminatory behaviour will result in disciplinary action.”
Legal experts say, though, that not all workplace banter would be considered discrimination and that context is important.
Rivalries are not only being expressed among work colleagues — next-door neighbours are finding themselves on opposing sides, too. In the village of Llanymynech, the Welsh dragon flags are going up in the Dolphin Inn on one side of the road, the St George flags in the Cross Keys on the other.
Thank God for employment solicitors.
How did we ever manage to navigate the minefield of interpersonal relationships in the workplace before they came along?
