Dismissal for manifesting extreme and offensive political opinions 



An employee’s extreme and offensive political opinions or affiliation can be a fair reason for dismissal, depending on all the circumstances. For example, if the employee publishes their offensive views on a platform (such as social media) where the employer can be identified, and those views are contrary to the employer’s ethos or reputation the dismissal is likely to be fair. As always, a fair dismissal requires employers to have well-publicised rules and policies in place making their standards clear.


No service is needed for a claim for unfair dismissal where the reason or main reason for dismissal is or relates to an employee’s “political opinions or affiliation” (section 108, ERA 96 as amended, Redfearn v The UK [2012] ECHR 1878).



Some political beliefs may be protected by the Equality Act 2010. See page 225 for more information.