It was intended to enable people to raise discrimination complaints without fear of retribution. It seems that ex-employees discriminated against on the grounds of sex have no remedy unless they can show victimisation. Ex-employees treated less favourably on the grounds of race have no remedy at all. This appalling position can be changed in one of two ways - the Court of Appeal or a change in the law. The Department for Education and Employment is currently consulting on changes to the equal pay legislation and the vulnerable position of ex-employees.
Unions can make their views known.
Thompsons' submission to the DfEE is available from the Employment Rights Unit, Congress House.