Asda fined for ‘union-busting’ tactics at depot

Asda is considering an appeal after an employment tribunal ruled that it illegally offered union members inducements to give up collective bargaining rights.

The tribunal in Newcastle-upon-Tyne found that the retailer had breached section 145B of the Trade Union and Labour Relations Consolidation Act (1992) by offering staff at its Washington depot a 10% pay rise if they gave up membership of the GMB union.

The tribunal directed the retailer to pay £2,500 to each of the 340 GMB members, amounting to £850,000.

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The judgment said: “One cannot describe this other than as very hostile to trade unions and highly disparaging of the process of collective bargaining.”

An Asda spokesman said: “We’re disappointed with the decision – we’re currently considering the judgment and whether to appeal.”