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NLJ this week: Clarity on whistleblowing, settlements and tribunal limits

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A quiet month for employment cases still delivers key legal clarifications. In his latest Employment Law Brief for NLJ, Ian Smith reports that whistleblowing protection remains intact even where disclosures are partly self-serving, provided the worker reasonably believes they serve the ‘public interest’ 

Meanwhile, courts reaffirm the distinction between ‘reason’ and ‘motive’ in discrimination claims, limiting challenges where commercial factors drive decisions. A further ruling confirms that broadly worded COT3 settlements can extinguish related appeals, closing off ongoing litigation.

Smith also notes a continued shift towards a more adversarial tribunal approach, with courts reluctant to consider arguments not explicitly raised.

While legislative updates—from benefit uprating to new Employment Rights Act measures—dominate, these cases highlight tightening procedural boundaries. The overall picture is one of refinement rather than revolution, but with meaningful consequences for claimants navigating an increasingly technical landscape.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

DWF—David Abbott & Claire Keat

DWF—David Abbott & Claire Keat

Senior appointments in insurance services and commercial services announced

Clyde & Co—Nick Roberts

Clyde & Co—Nick Roberts

Aviation disputes practice strengthened by London partner hire

Ellisons—Marion Knocker

Ellisons—Marion Knocker

Residential property lawyer promoted to partnership

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