Upcoming Hearings Announced for Certification Officer Role

In a series of cases scheduled to be heard in the coming months, various applicants have brought complaints against trade unions under section 108A of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. These cases span a range of issues, including breaches of union rules during election processes and failures to adhere to principles of natural justice.

Upcoming Cases and Complaints

The first case involves Dabrowski & Whitehouse alongside the Communication Workers Union, set for 20-22 October. The applicants have lodged two complaints asserting that the union violated its own rules during the branch elections of 2026.

Following this, the British Medical Association will be facing six complaints from an applicant named Ali, scheduled for 10-11 November. These complaints encompass disciplinary actions taken by the union, as well as several other distinct matters under the same legislative framework.

On 17-18 November, Coe will present two complaints against the Transport Salaried Staffs’ Association (TSSA). The allegations centre around the union’s refusal to circulate the applicant’s appeals during the Annual Conferences of 2025 and 2026, which the applicant claims breaches the union’s rules regarding disciplinary proceedings. Furthermore, the applicant contends that the union acted contrary to the implied rule of natural justice by not notifying him of the charges and failing to provide an opportunity to defend himself.

Further Complaints Against Unions

Later in November, on the 24-25th, Baird will raise two complaints against the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT), alleging that the union breached its rules during an election held in 2025 by not allowing the applicant to present an election address to the Executive Committee.

In February 2027, a series of cases will unfold. The first, involving Bates, Floyd, and Mangan against TSSA from 2-4 February, will address separate applications concerning breaches related to the 2026 National Treasurer elections and specific disciplinary proceedings involving Mr Bates.

On 8-9 February, Farwell will bring forth a complaint against the University and College Union (UCU), alleging a breach of rules in relation to disciplinary procedures and the implied rule of natural justice.

Recent Complaints and Accessibility

Plummer v Unite the Union is scheduled for 24-25 February 2027, where the applicant will present six complaints regarding breaches related to decision-making meetings and election processes. Following this, Smith will bring two complaints against Unite the Union on 3-4 March, asserting that the union denied access to its accounting records and failed to convene a Special Executive Council meeting in accordance with its rules.

Lastly, Hughes will present a single complaint against Prospect on 25 March, alleging a breach concerning the constitution and proceedings of a decision-making meeting.

All hearings will be conducted remotely via Zoom video conferencing facilities. Interested parties wishing to attend can contact the Certification Office by email at info@certoffice.org or by calling 0330 109 3602 for further details.

For individuals with disabilities requiring assistance to attend a hearing, it is recommended to reach out to the Certification Office to discuss any reasonable adjustments that may be necessary.