Original document : https://www.gov.uk/government/news/certification-officer-latest-decisions

Change description : 2022-01-18 14:09:00: [News and communications]

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News story

Certification Officer: general announcements and latest decisions

Certification Office recognised as a Investors in People Silver award

18 January 2022

Breach of Union rule decision: Embery v Fire Brigades Union (2) (D/16-17/20-21)

The applicant made two complaints under 108A (1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the union breached its rules relating to the disciplinary process.

Following a hearing by Video Conferencing, the Certification Officer refused both complaints.

15 December 2021

Implementation of the Trade Union Act 2016

Over the last two weeks the Government has taken some significant steps towards implementing the remaining provisions of the Trade Union Act 2016.

Last week, statutory instruments covering the powers of the Certification Officer to deal with suspected breaches of the 1992 Act, to investigate those breaches and to enforce any orders they make, were made, and these powers will come into force on 1 April 2022.

Yesterday, the Government laid in Parliament the regulations framing the power of the Certification Officer to require trade unions and employers’ associations to pay a levy and allowing her to impose financial penalties on them. Subject to parliamentary approval, these powers will also come into force from 1 April 2022.

My office has prepared some guidance (PDF, 175 KB, 14 pages), which sets out how I intend to administer these powers once they have been implemented. At this stage, the guidance is in draft form and I would be grateful for your view as to whether it is sensible, easy to understand and helpful to your organisation.

I intend to publish finalised guidance on these matters at the point at which the new powers come into force and so it would be helpful if you could submit any comments or questions you have to info@certoffice.org before 11 March 2022. I should stress that the guidance will be subject to change after that date, being continually updated to reflect my experience of using these powers in practice.

Sarah Bedwell Certification Officer

30 November 2021

Breach of Union rules decision: Meechan & Others v British Air Line Pilots Association (D/15/21-22)

Mr Meechan and Members of the Virgin Atlantic Company Council submitted three complaints of breaches of rules relating to the General Secretary election.

The Certification Officer struck out the complaints under Section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that they has no reasonable prospect of success and/or were otherwise misconceived.

24 November 2021

Breach of Union rules decision: Morley v Unison (D/14/21-22)

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. Mr Morley made a complaint of a breach of a union rule in relation to the Lancashire branch secretary election. Mr Morley made a complaint of a breach of a union rule in relation to the Lancashire branch secretary election.

The Union conceded the breach and the Certification Officer made a declaration to that effect, however she did not consider it appropriate to make an enforcement order.

23 November 2021

Breach of Union rules decision: Embery v Fire Brigades Union (D/13/21-22)

This decision related to Mr Embery’s application under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. Mr Embery made a complaint of a breach of a union rule in relation to the constitution or proceedings of any executive committee or of any decision-making meeting. The Certification Officer struck out the complaint under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis it had no reasonable prospect of success.

16 November 2021

Breach of Union rules decision: Watkins v British Medical Association (D/12/21-22)

This decision relates to Dr Watkins’ application under 108A (1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the union breached its rules relating to the disciplinary process. This was originally determined by the Certification Officer on 14 October 2019. On appeal, the Employment Appeal Tribunal remitted one of Dr Watkins’ complaints back to the Certification Officer for a new decision. Following a hearing, the Certification Officer did not uphold the complaint.

8 November 2021

Breach of Union rules decision: Foden v National Education Union (D/11/21-22)

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. Mr Foden made three complaints of breaches of union rules in relation to disciplinary proceedings. The Certification Officer struck out the complaints under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis they had no reasonable prospect of success.

26 October 2021

Breach of Union rules decision: Morley v Unison (D/10/21-22)

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. Mr Morley made two complaints of breaches of a union rules in relation to a branch election. The Certification Officer struck out the complaints under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis they had no reasonable prospect of success.

11 October 2021

Breach of Union rules decision: Wilson v Unison (D/9/21-22)

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. Mr Wilson made a complaint of breach of a union rule in relation to a branch election. The Certification Officer struck out the complaint under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that it had no reasonable prospect of success.

4 October 2021

Breach of Union rules decision: Parry v USDAW (D/4-8/21-22)

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. Mr Parry submitted five complaints of breaches of rule relating to local branch elections. Mr Parry withdrew two complaints; the Certification Officer struck out one complaint; and the union conceded breaches of two complaints. The Certification Officer made a declaration for the two breaches conceded by the Union but did not make an Order as the Union had started election procedures to rectify the breaches.

9 August 2021

Breach of Union rule decision: Kelly v Musicians’ Union (D/3/21-2)

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

Breach of Union rule decision: Morley v GMB (D/2/21-2)

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

8 July 2021

Certification Officer’s Annual Report

The Annual Report of the Certification Officer, Sarah Bedwell, was laid before Parliament on 8 July 2020. The report describes the work of the Certification Officer over the year 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2021 and provides detailed information on all trade unions and employers’ associations. The statistical information it contains is drawn from the annual returns received during the reporting period, which relate mainly to the year ending 31 December 2020.

8 June 2021

Implementation of the remaining parts of the Trade Union Act 2016

The Government has today announced its plans to implement the remaining parts of the Trade Union Act 2016 which give the Certification Officer additional powers. These are:

  • Section 17 – Increased investigatory powers and the power to act without an application
  • Section 19 – Power to impose financial penalties following a finding against a Union
  • Section 20 – Power to impose a levy on trade unions and employers’ associations to contribute to the costs of the Certification Office

More details about the Government’s announcement is available from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

Any enquiries regarding the government plans should be sent to: enquiries@beis.gov.uk

20 May 2021

Breach of Union rule decision: McFadden v Unite the Union (D/1/21-22)

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

23 February 2021

Breach of Union rule decision: Simpson v Unite the Union (2) (D/23-25/20-21)

The applicant made three complaints under 108A (1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the union breached its rules relating to the disciplinary process.

Following a hearing by Video Conferencing, the Certification Officer refused all three complaints.

7 January 2021

Breach of Union rule decision: Hussain v Communication Workers Union (2) (Part 2)(D/22/20-21)

Mr Hussain made 5 complaints of breach of union rules in relation to the elections at the South East No.5 branch of the Union. Complaints 2-5 were struck out previously (D/20-23/19-20). The Certification Officer struck out the remaining complaint under Section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that it has no reasonable prospect of success and/or is otherwise misconceived previously .

23 December 2020

Political funds decision: Jennings v GMB (D/21/20-21)

The applicant made a complaint under section 72A of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 for an alleged breach of Section 71(1) against the union for using £240 from its General Fund for political purposes. The Certification Officer struck out the complaint under section 256ZA of the 1992 Act on the basis that it had no reasonable prospect of success and/or is otherwise misconceived.

11 December 2020

The Workers’ Union

We have had number of enquiries relating to The Workers’ Union. The Workers’ Union is a commercial organisation offering services to members. It is not a trade union as defined by the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 Act and is not subject to the Certification Officer’s powers.

9 December 2020

Breach of union rules decision: Kidd v Musicians’ Union (D/20/20-21)

The applicant made a complaint under 108A (1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the union breached its rule with regards to the eligibility criteria for the election of the General Secretary.

The Certification Officer struck out the complaint under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that it had no reasonable prospect of success.

23 November 2020

Breach of union rules decision: Singh v University College Union (UCU) (D/18-19/20-21)

The applicant made two complaints under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the Union had breached its rule relating to the election and removal of a workplace representative. Following a hearing on 29 October , the Certification Officer refused both the complaints.

4 November 2020

Breach of union rules decision: Alam v Unite the Union (D/15-17/20-21

Mr Alam made three complaints of breach of union rules in relation to branch elections. The Certification Officer struck out complaints one and two under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that they had no reasonable prospect of success and/or are otherwise misconceived. The Union conceded complaint three. The Certification Officer declined to make an Enforcement Order.

21 October 2020

Breach of Statute decision: Simpson v Unite the Union (3) (D/14/20-21

Mr Simpson made a complaint that Unite the Union breached section 30(2) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 in failing to comply with his request to access accounting records of the union.

The Certification Officer found that the union had not breached Section 30 of the 1992 Act in respect of the Applicant’s complaint that he had been denied access to the Union’s accounting records.

7 October 2020

CERTIFICATION OFFICE RECOGNISED AS INVESTOR IN PEOPLE

Investors in People has awarded the Certification Office it’s Silver accreditation. Achieving this internationally-recognised standard demonstrates the Certification Office’s commitment to excellence through quality people management.

Sarah Bedwell, the Certification Officer, said:

“I’m really proud of everyone for achieving this award – it recognises how well we all work together and our commitment to providing a good service. We will build on our success by continuing to develop together and deliver improvements for our customers and stakeholders. The award, recognises a highly empowered workforce, supportive management and an embedded commitment to developing individuals. Silver is a fantastic achievement and something only 20% of the organisations that IIP assess achieve.”

Investors in People (IIP) aims to make work better through investing in the right blend of talent, motivation and leadership. The IIP framework assesses organisations in three areas:

• Leading: Inspiring people ; living the organisation’s values and behaviours; and empowering and involving people • Supporting: Managing performance; rewarding and recognising high performance; and structuring work • Improving: Building capability; delivering continuous improvement; and creating sustainable success

These are some of the things the assessor said:

“The Certification Office works as a team aiming to provide an open, accessible and efficient service… [P]eople confirmed they have clear direction, guidance and support from managers. People believe they are trusted and have been encouraged to get involved and/or participate in projects and initiatives. Partnerships with ACAS and BEIS have strengthened. Business as usual continues and there is now a focus on conducting virtual hearings.”

“Daily meetings have been embraced and people believe this has created greater cohesion across the team. Telephone conversations are encouraged to help minimise emails. Remote working has been a positive experience, and everyone will have a choice about when and how they return to the office. This will be a blended approach with plans in place to work with different colleagues each week.”

“The Certification Office welcomes feedback. It has continued to improve systems, processes and how it manages and develops people. The team are optimistic about future developments and are keen to capture the positives on how they have worked during the pandemic. Increased delegation has created a greater level of trust and improved accountability. This has been instrumental in helping to achieve a higher level of accreditation as an Investors in People organisation”

15 September 2020

Breach of union rules decision: Dunbobbin v UNISON (D/13/20-21)

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

21 July 2020

Breach of union rules decision: Simpson v Unite the Union (4) (D/2-12/20-21)

Mr Simpson made 12 complaints of breach of union rules in relation to his appeal hearing. The Certification Officer struck out the complaints under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that they have no reasonable prospect of success and/or are otherwise misconceived.

9 July 2020

The Annual Report of the Certification Officer, Sarah Bedwell, was laid before Parliament on 9 July 2020. The report describes the work of the Certification Officer over the year 1 April 2019 to 31 March 2020 and provides detailed information on all trade unions and employers’ associations. The statistical information it contains is drawn from the annual returns received during the reporting period, which relate mainly to the year ending 31 December 2018.

1 July 2020

Breach of union rules decision: Professor Pollock v British Medical Association (D/1/20-21)

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

12 June 2020

Certification Office’s Operational Plan for 2020-2021 published

25 March 2020

Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Impact on Trade Unions and Employers’ Associations

The Certification Officer recognises that trade unions and employers’ associations may find it difficult to comply with some of the requirements set out in the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 (“the Act”) because of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic

The Certification Officer is clear that the priority for trade unions must be to comply with the government’s guidance on dealing with the pandemic, and that the safety of their staff and members is paramount.

Where a trade union believes that it cannot comply with the Act, that it will miss any deadlines set for it by the Certification Officer, or that it must breach its rules relating to any of the matters set out in Section 108A of the Act, it should seek to notify the Certification Officer at the earliest opportunity.

The Certification Officer will consider any representations made to her relating to any of these issues on a case-by-case basis, and she will seek to accommodate any requests made in those representations. The health and safety of Union Members, staff and the general public will be her primary concern.

It is important to note that the Certification Officer and her staff will be working away from the office for the foreseeable future. If you need to contact us please do so by email. It would be helpful if you could copy all emails to info@certoffice.org to ensure that we can deal with your issue if your contact is not available.

It is possible that, whilst our premises are closed, we may not be able to offer our full range of service or to reply to you as quickly as usual. You should, however, continue to contact us as normal and we will get back to you as soon as you can.

24 February 2020

Breach of Union Rules decision:St John v Unite the Union (D/29/19-20)

The applicant made one complaint under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the Union had breached a provision of its EC Guidance relating to the election of workplace representatives.

Following a hearing on 7 January 2020, the Certification Officer refused the complaint.

13 January 2020

Breach of statutory balloting procedures (D/27-28/19-20)

The applicant made two complaints under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the Union had breached rules relating to the appointment and/ or removal of a person from office.

Following a hearing on 17 December 2019, the Certification Officer refused both the complaints.

10 January 2020

Breach of statutory balloting procedures (D/26/19-20)

Mr Crew made a complaint under s46 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 relating to the election for Assistant General Secretary for the Union’s Aegon Branch. The Certification Officer upheld the complaint and made an enforcement order in relation to the breach of Section 46(1)(a) of the 1992 Act.

17 December 2019

Breach of Union Rules decision:Jones v UNISON (D/25/19-20)

Mr Jones made a complaint of a breach of union rule relating to the 2019-2021 NEC Election Procedures. The Certification Officer struck out the application under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that it has no reasonable prospect of success and/or is otherwise misconceived.

22 November 2019

Breach of Union Rules decision:Dunham v Society of Radiographers (D/24/19-20)

Mr Dunham made a complaint under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the Union had breached a disciplinary rule in relation to the disciplinary proceedings. The Certification Officer dismissed his complaint.

4 November 2019

Breach of Union Rules decision: Hussain v CWU (2) (Part 1) (D/20-23/19-20)

Mr Hussain made 5 complaints of breach of union rules in relation to the elections at the South East No.5 branch of the Union. The Certification Officer struck out complaints 2-5 under Section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that it has no reasonable prospect of success and/or is otherwise misconceived.

Complaint 1 is yet to be determine by the Certification Officer.

22 October 2019

Breach of Statute decision: Parlour v NASUWT (D/19/19-20)

Mrs Parlour made one complaint under s46 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 relating to the election of the General Secretary. The Certification Officer upheld the complaint but did not find it appropriate to make an enforcement order as the union had already started the process of electing a General Secretary.

22 October 2019

Breach of union rules decision: Watkins v British Medical Association (D/13-18/19-20)

Dr Watkins made six complaints of breaches of rules relating to the union’s disciplinary procedure. The Certification Office dismissed complaints 2-6. Complaint 1 was conceded by the union. The Certification Officer declined to make an enforcement order as Mr Watkins period of suspension ended and had no bearing for his eligibility to stand for Council elections in 2018.

5 September 2019

The Annual Report of the Certification Officer, Sarah Bedwell, was laid before Parliament today 5 September 2019. The report describes the work of the Certification Officer over the year 1 April 2018 to 31 March 2019 and provides detailed information on all trade unions and employers’ associations. The statistical information it contains is drawn from the annual returns received during the reporting period, which relate mainly to the year ending 31 December 2017.

30 August 2019

Political funds decision: Oley & Others v Unite the Union (D/12/19-20)

Mr Oley and Others made a complaint under section 72A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation Act) 1992 for an alleged breach of Section 71(1) against the union for using £1,965.34 from its General Fund for political purposes. The Certification Officer made a declaration but did not make an Order as the Union had repaid the monies in its General Fund

02 August 2019

Breach of union rules decision: Watkins v British Medical Association (D/11/19-20)

Dr Watkins made a number of complaints of breach of union rules in relation to disciplinary proceedings. The Certification Officer struck out his Complaint 7 under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that it had no reasonable prospect of success.

25 July 2018

The Certification Officer’s Annual Report 2018-19 will not be published in July 2019 as planned. It will now be published after the Parliamentary summer recess.

05 July 2019

Breach of union rules decision: Tavsanoglu v GMB (D/8/19-20)

Dr Tavsanoglu made a complaint of breach of union rule in relation to her alleged removal from office. The Certification Officer struck out the application under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that it has no reasonable prospect of success and/or is otherwise misconceived.

3 July 2019

Breach of union rules decision: Bell v Unite the Union (D/10/19-20)

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

26 June 2019

Breach of union rules decision: Simpson v Unite the Union (D/9/2019-20)

Mr Simpson made 3 complaints of breach of union rules in relation to disciplinary proceedings. The Certification Officer struck out complaint 3 under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that it had reasonable prospect of success and/or is otherwise misconceived.

Complaints 1 and 2 were struck by the Certification Officer in the decision D/5-6/19-20.

19 June 2019

Breach of union rules decision: Dinsdale v Unite the Union

Mr Dinsdale made 3 complaints of breach of union rules in relation to the election of the Sellafield Site Shop Stewards and the Sellafield Branch Committee . The Certification Officer struck out complaint 3 under Section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that it has no reasonable prospect of success and/or is otherwise misconceived.

Complaints 1 and 2 have yet to be determine by the Certification Officer.

6 June 2019

Breach of union rules decision: Simpson v Unite the Union

Mr Simpson made 3 complaints of breach of union rules in relation to disciplinary proceedings. The Certification Officer struck out complaints 1 and 2 under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that they have no reasonable prospect of success and/or are otherwise misconceived.

Complaint 3 has yet to be determined by the Certification Officer.

6 June 2019

Breach of union rule decision: Dosanjh v POA

Mr Dosanjh made a complaint of breach of union rule in relation to the election of the Deputy General Secretary. The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

20 May 2019

Breach of union rule decision: Bromfield v GMB

Mr Bromfield made two complaints of breach of union rule in relation to disciplinary proceedings. The Certification Officer struck out the application under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that it has no reasonable prospect of success and/or is otherwise misconceived.

12 April 2019

Breach of union rules decision: McFadden v Unite the Union

The applicant made a number of complaints under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the Union had breached its rules relating to disciplinary proceedings.

Following a preliminary hearing on Thursday 21 March 2019, the Certification Officer determined that the complaints would proceed to a full hearing to decide the applicant’s complaints

5 April 2019

Breach of union rule decision: Newton v Musicians’ Union

Mr Newton made a complaint of breach of union rule in relation to disciplinary proceedings. The Certification Officer struck out the application under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that it has no reasonable prospect of success and/or is otherwise misconceived.

3 April 2019

Breach of union rule decision: Connolly v Usdaw

The applicant made one complaint under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the Union had breached rules relating to disciplinary proceedings.

The Certification Officer made a declaration that the Union breached its rule in removing her from her position as a shop steward.

The Certification Officer declined to make an enforcement order.

11 March 2019

Breach of union rule decision: Morley v GMB

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992.

The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

8 February 2019

Breach of union rule decision: Kelly v Musicians’ Union

The applicant made six complaints under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the Union had breached rules relating to disciplinary proceedings.

A hearing on the first complaint was held on 8 January 2019. Following the hearing, the Certification Officer upheld the complaint and considered it appropriate to make an enforcement order. The Certification Officer ordered that:-

  1. Mr Kelly be restored to membership of the Musicians’ Union
  2. Mr Kelly be reinstated to the Recording and Broadcast Committee
  3. Mr Kelly be restored as an Approved Musicians’ Union Contractor
  4. The Union must not remove Mr Kelly’s Approved Musicians’ Union Contractor Status, or include him within the Ask us First List, on the basis of any disciplinary or other Union process which arises from Mr Kelly’s membership of the Union and which is based on information which was considered as part of the disciplinary process which began with the General Secretary’s letter of 24 January 2018.

24 January 2019

Access to accounting records decision: Ali v RMT

This application was made under Sections 30(2)(a), 30(2)(b) and 30(2)(c) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992.

The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant

13 December 2018

Breach of union rule decision: Robinson v GMB

The applicant made one complaint under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the Union had breached rules relating to removal from office.

Following a hearing on 28 November 2018, the Certification Officer refused the complaint.

12 December 2018

Breach of union rule decision: Leakey v Unison

This application was made under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992.

The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant

5 December 2018

Breach of union rule decision: Blackledge v University and College Union

The applicant made seven complaints under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the Union had breached rules relating to disciplinary proceedings.

Following a hearing on 13 November 2018, the Certification Officer refused all these complaints.

26 November 2018

Breach of union rule decision: Lascelles v Prospect

Upon an application made by Mr Lascelles under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations Act 1992 that Prospect had breached an implied rule of the union relating to the balloting of members on any issue other than industrial action.

The application is dismissed upon withdrawal by Mr Lascelles.

19 November 2018

Breach of union rules decision: Hussain v Communication Workers Union

The applicant made two complaints under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 relating to branch elections. Prior to the hearing, the union conceded that the breaches had occurred. The Certification Officer upheld two complaints in relation to a breach of rules of the branch constitution and considered it appropriate to make an enforcement order. The Certification Officer ordered that:-

The Union undertake the remaining stages of the current ballot, which was originally concluded in December 2017 and which is the subject of the complaints made by Mr Hussain, in accordance with the Union’s Rules. The result of the ballot should be declared by 3 December 2018.

12 November 2018

Breach of union rules decision: Taylor v Unite the Union

The applicant made three complaints under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 relating to the union’s West Midlands Regional Committee elections.

The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

23 October 2018

Breach of union rules decision: Armstrong v Unite the Union

The applicant made a complaint under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the Union had breached a disciplinary rule in relation to the applicant’s suspension from a branch office.

The Certification Officer dismissed this complaint by a decision dated 15 October 2018.

23 October 2018

Breach of union rules and breach of statute decision: McAllister v Usdaw

The applicant made one complaint under Section 55(1) and two complaints under Section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 relating to the union’s presidential and council elections.

The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

9 October 2018

Breach of union rules decision: Coyne & Brooks v Unite the Union (2)

The applicants made 10 complaints in relation to the 2017 election of the General Secretary of Unite the Union. This decision of Assistant Certification Officer, Mr Jeffrey Burke QC, deals with complaints 2 to 10 that were determined following a five day hearing held between 25 and 29 June 2018. The Assistant Certification Officer dismissed all nine complaints.

Complaint one was determined following a hearing on 27 March 2018 before Mr Burke QC. In a decision dated 4 May 2018 he dismissed the complaint. D/2/18-19

28 September 2018

Breach of union rules decision: Peros v Napo - the Trade Union and Professional Association for Family Court and Probation Staff

The applicant made four complaints Under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 concerning breaches of union rules in relation to disciplinary proceedings against him.

The Certification Officer upheld all the complaints but declined to make an Enforcement Order.

25 July 2018

Breach of union rules decision: Gates v Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists

The applicant made a complaint under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the Union had breached a provision of its handbook in relation to a representative post in NHS Highland.

On 16 July 2018 the Certification Officer refused this complaint having found that the handbook does not form part of the Union’s rules.

18 July 2018

The Certification Officer’s Annual Report 2017-2018 will not be published in July 2018 as planned. It will now be published after the Parliamentary summer recess.

8 June 2018

Breach of union rules decision Dawson v University and College Union

The applicant made two complaints under 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the union had breached its rules relating to the disciplinary process. The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

9 May 2018

Breach of union rules decision Dinsdale v GMB

The applicant made two complaints under 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the union had breached its rules around branch elections. The Certification Officer refused both of these complaints.

2 May 2018

Breach of union rules decision Cullen v Unite the Union

Mr Cullen made a complaint of breach of union rules in relation to removal from a post. The Certification Officer struck out the application under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that it has no reasonable prospect of success and/or is otherwise misconceived.

4 May 2018

Breach of union rules decision Coyne & Brooks v Unite the Union

The applicants made 10 complaints in relation to the 2017 election of the General Secretary of Unite the Union. Assistant Certification Officer, Mr Jeffrey Burke QC, held a hearing on 27 March 2018, to determine the preliminary point, dealt with in Complaint 1, that, under the Union’s rules, there was no power to hold the election at all, at the time it was held. The Assistant Certification Officer resolved this preliminary point in favour of the Union. The remaining complaints will be heard over 5 days commencing on 25 June 2018. The details of the venue will be confirmed shortly.

23 March 2018

Breach of union rules decision Mr M Rolfe v POA

Mr Rolfe made three complaints of breach of union rules in relation to a disqualification from holding NEC posts until 2016. Two complaints were dismissed upon withdrawal by Mr Rolfe. The Certification Officer upheld one complaint in relation to a breach of union rule 10.9 and considered it appropriate to make an enforcement order. The Certification Officer ordered that:-

The NEC remove the disqualification of Mr Rolfe from holding any National Executive post which was imposed on him under rule 10.9 following his resignation as a Prison Officer on 3 May 2017. This order will take effect from the date of this decision.

15 March 2018

Breach of union rules decision Pollock v Accord

The applicant made a complaint alleging that the Union breached a rule relating to its Executive Committees. The complaint was dismissed upon withdrawal by the applicant.

2 February 2018

Access to accounting records decision: Mr Markham v GMB

Mr Markham made a complaint alleging that GMB breached section 30(2) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 in failing to comply with his request to access branch accounting records. The Certification Officer upheld the complaint after the union conceded the breach. No enforcement order was made as Mr Markham had been granted access to the requested records.

19 January 2018

Breach of union rules decision Chisholm v Unite the Union

The applicant made two complaints under 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 about her alleged removal from office as branch secretary. The Certification Officer refused both of these complaints.

16 January 2018

Breach of union rules decision Boswell and Ors v United Road Transport Union (URTU)

The claimants made three complaints alleging that URTU had breached its rules relating to disciplinary proceedings. The Assistant Certification Officer upheld one complaint that the union had breached its rules and dismissed the other two complaints. The ACO has now received further submissions from parties following the findings in this decision and is now considering the appropriate remedy

19 December 2017

Breach of union rules decision Prof Barron v University College Union

Prof Barron made nine complaints of breaches of rule of the LSE branch of the UCU pursuant to s.108A(2) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. The Assistant Certification Officer (ACO) made a declaration that breaches had occurred in relation to complaints 2 and 8.

Complaint 2 – the ACO made a declaration that the union had breached 9.1 of the LSE branch rules by failing to ensure the branch committee appointed a returning officer for elections.

Complaint 8 – the ACO made a declaration that the union breached rule 11 of the LSE branch rules by failing to ensure the delegates to the 2017 Congress were elected from members of the LSE branch.

The ACO did not make any enforcement orders.

Complaint 3 was dismissed as it fell outside the Certification Officer’s jurisdiction. Complaint 5 was dismissed as it was submitted out of time. Complaints 1,4,6,7 and 9 were dismissed as no breach or threatened breach had been found.

12 December 2017

Breach of union rules decision Dr Elliott & Dr Borbora v British Medical Association

Dr Elliott made four complaints and Dr Borbora made three complaints alleging breaches of union rule relating to disciplinary procedures under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992.

The Certification Officer refused both Dr Elliott’s and Dr Borbora’s applications.

14 November 2017

Breach of union rules decision Mr Alec McFadden v Unite the Union

The applicant made two complaints under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that Unite the Union had breached its rules relating to disciplinary proceedings. Following submissions from the parties on two preliminary issues the Assistant Certification Officer, appointed by the Certification Officer to hear the complaints, decided to uphold the applicant’s complaints of breach of rules.

30 October 2017

Breach of Union Rule decision: Mr Tully v National Crime Officers Association

The applicant made five complaints under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the National Crime Officers Association had breached its rules relating to disciplinary proceedings. The Certification Officer made five declarations that the union had breached its rules. The following enforcement orders were made: 1.The National Executive Committee’s decision at its meeting on 7 to 8 September 2016 to expel Mr Tully from membership of the NCOA is null and void. 2.The Union make arrangement to restore Mr Tully to membership of the NCOA by 19 November 2017.

13 October 2017

Financial irregularity decision: National Union of Mineworkers (Northumberland Area)

The Certification Officer has decided not to exercise his discretion to appoint an inspector to investigate the financial affairs of National Union of Mineworkers (Northumberland Area). He has written to the union to inform them of his decision and his reasons. The letter to the union, which contains background information and comment, is published here.

13 September 2017

Breach of Union Rules Decision: Penkethman & Walker v Communication Workers union

Ms Penkethman and Mr Walker made one complaint alleging a breach of rule relating to canvasing during the 2017 elections in the Midland No 7 branch of the CWU under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. Mr Walker made a further separate complaint relating to the receiving of a voting paper during the same election.

The Certification Officer refused both of the claimants’ applications

9 August 2017

Breach of Union Rules Decision: McFadden v Unite the Union

The claimant alleges that Unite the Union breached its rules in relation to disciplinary proceedings against him. Following a preliminary hearing the Assistant Certification Officer identified the issues in dispute which fall to be determined at a full hearing of the complaints. The Certification Officer also identified a preliminary issue to be decided by him before any further hearing. He set directions for the full hearing.

18 July 2017

The Annual Report of the Certification Officer, Gerard Walker, was laid before Parliament today 18 July 2017. The report describes the work of the Certification Officer over the year 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2017 and provides detailed information on all trade unions and employers’ associations. The statistical information it contains is drawn from the annual returns received during the reporting period, which relate mainly to the year ending 31 December 2015.

22 May 2017

Burgess and ors, Wakefield, Bannister and Rogers v UNISON: The Public Service Union

The applicants made 16 complaints that UNISON had breached its rules in relation to its 2015 General Secretary election. Many of these complaints contained multiple allegations of breaches. In addition it was alleged that the Union breached section 49(4) and 49(6) of the 1992 Act also in relation to the 2015 UNISON General Secretary election.

The Assistant Certification Officer made decisions relating to all of the above complaints. She made one declaration that the union had breached its rules. No enforcement order was made.

19 May 2017

Breach of union rules decision: Mr K Johnson v GMB

The applicant made four complaints under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union Labour Relations (Consolidation Act) 1992 that the GMB had breached rules of the Union relating to matters specified in section 108A(2).

The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

28 April 2017

Amalgamation of ATL and NUT

An application to register the Instrument of Amalgamation of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers and the National Union of Teachers was received on 25 April 2017.

20 March 2017

Listings decision: Disabled Workers Union

Under section 3(3) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. The Certification Officer refused the application by Disabled Workers Union to be entered in the list of trade unions.

10 March 2017

Mr Fernandez and Ors v Unite the Union

The claimants made four complaints of that the Union breached its rules on relation to branch officer elections in union’s LE/2000 Branch and one complaint of a breach of section 30 (2) of the 1992 Act in relation to the request for access to accounting records. The Certification Officer upheld one complaint of breach of rule and dismissed the other complaints. No enforcement order was made.

23 January 2017

Mathewson v NUM

Mr Mathewson made seven complaints alleging the union had breached its rules and one complaint of the union’s breach of Chapter IV of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. Following correspondence, the Certification Officer struck out all eight complaints under section 256ZA(1)(a) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the grounds that they had no reasonable prospect of success and/or were otherwise misconceived.

10 January 2017

Laws v GMB

The applicant made a complaint under section 108A(1) of the Trade Union Labour Relations (Consolidation Act) 1992 that the GMB had breached rules of the Union relating to matters specified in section 108A(2).

The Certification Officer dismissed the application upon withdrawal by the applicant.

16 November 2016

Abrahams & Ors v URTU

The applicants made three complaints relating to the 2016 Election for General Secretary of the Union. These included two alleged breaches of Chapter IV of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 and one alleged breach of one of the Union’s rules. The Certification Officer upheld all three complaints and made a single enforcement order in relation to the breach of Section 47(1) of the 1992 Act – Complaint 2.

27 October 2016

Beaumont v Unite the Union (No.5)

The claimant made seven complaints that the union had allegedly breached its rules in relation to eligibility to hold lay office on its Executive Council, and related issues. The Certification Officer dismissed all the complaints.

19 October 2016

Burgess & Ors, Rogers, Wakefield and Bannister v UNISON: The Public Service Union

The claimants alleged that Unison breached its rules and the 1992 Act in relation to the election for the position of General Secretary of UNISON in late 2015. At the preliminary hearing on 6th October 2016, the Assistant Certification Officer determined that the complaints from all four applicants should be consolidated and determined at a single hearing. In addition the issues to be determined were identified and agreed. The ACO also gave directions for the full merits hearing which is to be heard on 19,20 and 21 December 2016.

30 August 2016

Bannister v UNISON: The Public Service Union

Mr Bannister brought five complaints in which he alleged that UNISON: The Public Service Union breached its rules in relation to the UNISON 2015 General Secretary election. Three of Mr Bannister’s complaints were struck out under section 256ZA(1)(a) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the basis that they had no reasonable prospect of success and/or were otherwise misconceived. The remaining two complaints are to proceed to a full hearing in order to be determined.

26 August 2016

Brough v Union of Construction, Allied Trades and Technicians (UCATT) (No. 2)

Mr Brough made a complaint alleging that UCATT had breached section 24(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 by failing to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the entries in its register of members were accurate and kept up-to-date. The Certification Officer upheld the complaint but considered it was inappropriate to make an enforcement order.

9 August 2016

Forbes v Scottish Secondary Teachers’ Association

Mr James Forbes made two complaints against the Scottish Secondary Teachers’ Association (“the Association”) in which he alleged that the Association breached its rules in relation to its internal disciplinary procedure and breached section 47(1) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. Mr Forbes died on 18 April 2016. On 20 July 2016 his complaints were withdrawn on behalf of his estate. The Certification Officer dismissed Mr Forbes’ complaints upon withdrawal by his estate.

14 July 2016

The Annual Report of the Certification Officer (2015-2016) is published and laid before Parliament. It is available to be downloaded from the Certification Officer’s website.

7 July 2016

Bentham v Union of Construction, Allied Trades and Technicians (UCATT) (No. 3)

Mr Bentham brought two complaints in which he alleged that UCATT breached its rules in relation to its internal disciplinary procedure. The complaints were struck out under section 256ZA(1)(a) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 (“the 1992 Act”) on the basis that they had been brought to the Certification Officer outside the time limits set out in section 108A(6) and (7) of the 1992 Act.

31 May 2016

Fletcher v Unite the Union

The claimant made a complaint alleging that Unite the Union breached section 30(2) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 in failing to comply with his request to access accounting records of the union. Upon the union providing the records the claimant withdrew the complaint. The complaint was dismissed upon withdrawal by the claimant.

17 May 2016

Fernandez Castillo and Ors. v Unite the Union

The claimants alleged that Unite the Union breached its rules in relation to the 2015 Branch LE/2000 election and breached section 30(2)(a) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. At the preliminary hearing the Certification Officer determined which branch constitution was valid at the time of the election and that the Branch Balloting Protocol constituted rules of the union. The Certification Officer also determined which complaints made by the claimants would proceed to a full hearing.

17 May 2016

Brough v Union of Construction, Allied Trades and Technicians (UCATT) (No 3)

Mr Brough made two complaints alleging the union had breached its rules relating to disciplinary matters. Following correspondence, the Certification Officer struck out both complaints under section 256ZA(1)(a) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the grounds that they had no reasonable prospect of success and/or were otherwise misconceived.

4 May 2016

Chapman v Community

Mr Chapman made five complaints relating to disciplinary proceedings by the Union. Mr Chapman alleged that the Union breached a number of its own rules during disciplinary proceedings against him and in handling a complaint by him against another Union member. The Certification Officer refused four of the claimant’s applications but declared in the claimant’s favour on the fifth complaint. The Certification Officer did not make any enforcement order.

22 March 2016

Henderson v GMB

Mr Henderson made five complaints relating to the Union’s election for the position of General Secretary and Treasurer. These included four alleged breaches of 47(1) Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 and one alleged breach of one of the Union’s by-laws. The Certification Officer refused all five of the claimant’s applications.

12 January 2016

Mills v Unite the Union

The claimant made a complaint alleging that Unite the Union had breached section 30(2)(a) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 in failing to comply within 28 days with her request to access accounting records of the union. The Certification Officer upheld the complaint and made an enforcement order.

25 November 2015

###Sweeney (No. 2) v Union of Construction, Allied Trades and Technicians (UCATT)

Mr Sweeney brought two complaints in which he alleged that UCATT breached its rules in not paying his or the person accompanying him their travel expenses in order to attend an appeal hearing before the General Council of UCATT. The complaints were struck out under section 256ZA(1)(a) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the grounds that they had no reasonable prospect of success and/or were otherwise misconceived.

17 November 2015

Rowlandson v UNISON

Mr Rowlandson made five complaints alleging that the union had breached its rules in relation to branch elections and one complaint in relation to disciplinary procedures. The union conceded breaches for four of the six complaints and the Certification Officer declared, by consent, that the relevant rules had been breached as alleged. He made a single enforcement order in relation to these complaints. The Certification Officer refused to make a declaration on the remaining two complaints.

22 October 2015

Radford v Equity (No.2)

Mr Radford made three complaints alleging that the union had breached two of its rules in relation to disciplinary procedures. The Certification refused the claimant’s application in relation to the first complaint. The Certification Officer upheld the second and third complaints for which he also made enforcement orders. The decision was issued to the parties on 22 October 2015 and reviewed, following an application from the Union, on 12 November 2015.

15 October 2015

Ritson v National Union of Teachers (NUT)

Mr Edward Ritson made six complaints alleging that the NUT breached its rules in relation to the nomination procedure followed by its Sefton Branch for local officers and committee. Following a settlement between the parties, Mr Ritson withdrew his complaints, which were dismissed by the Certification Officer upon withdrawal.

2 October 2015

Murray v Unite the Union

Mr Murray made a complaint alleging that the union had breached one of its rules in relation to the election of the Scottish Regional representative to its Executive Council that took place in 2015. The union conceded a breach of the rule. The Certification Officer made an enforcement order that the election be re-run.

29 July 2015

Brough v Union of Construction, Allied Trades and Technicians (UCATT)

Mr Brough made a complaint alleging that the union had breached its rules in relation to its internal disciplinary procedure. The Certification Officer dismissed the complaint.

20 July 2015

The Annual Report of the Certification Officer (2014-2015) is published and laid before Parliament. It is available to be downloaded from the Certification Officer’s website. Hard copies of the report are available upon request to the Certification Office (info@certoffice.org).

23 June 2015

Wilson v UNISON: The Public Services Union

The claimant alleged that the union breached its rules in relation to a ballot of members of the Doncaster Local Government Branch Retired Members Section. The application was struck out under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the grounds that the complaint advanced by the claimant had no reasonable prospect of success and/or was otherwise misconceived.

3 June 2015

Stevens v Union of Democratic Mineworkers

The claimant brought five complaints against the Union of Democratic Mineworkers. The complaints alleged breaches of rule relating to:

  • the notices required for branch meetings;
  • the voting of a branch delegate at the Union’s Council;
  • the election of a National Executive Committee member;
  • the attendance of a trustee at a National Executive Committee; and
  • a rule change relating to sections of the union.

Two of these complaints were upheld, two were dismissed and one was struck out by the Certification Officer under section 256ZA(4) of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992. The Certification Officer did not make any enforcement orders.

19 May 2015

Todd v Unite the Union

The claimant brought five complaints against Unite the Union. The complaints alleged breaches of rule relating to the complainant being prevented from speaking to the National Industrial Sector Committees of the Union and the handling of her complaints relating to the issue. The Certification Officer struck out all five complaints under section 256ZA of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 on the grounds that the complaints had no reasonable prospect of success and/or were otherwise misconceived.

15 May 2015

Boothroyd v UNISON

The claimant made a complaint alleging that UNISON breached its rules in removing him from membership. The claimant withdrew his complaint on the Union reinstating his membership. The Certification Officer dismissed the complaint upon withdrawal by the claimant.

15 May 2015

Beaumont (No. 4) and Mansell v Unite the Union

The claimants brought five complaints against Unite the Union. One complaint related to eligibility to sit on its Executive Council and was upheld. The other four related to the Executive Council election in 2014 Two of these complaints were upheld and two were dismissed. The Certification Officer did not make any enforcement orders.

17 April 2015

Street and Street v UNISON (on remission from the EAT)

The complaint, as remitted to the Certification Officer by the Employment Appeal Tribunal, following the Certification Officer’s decision (D/28-29/12-13) and EAT judgement (UKEAT/0256/13) was dismissed by the Certification Officer.

Published 11 November 2014
Last updated 1518 DecemberJanuary 20212022 + show all updates
  1. new CO decision- Embery v Fire Brigades Union (2)

  2. Certification Officer: Implementation of the remaining provisions of the Trade Union Act 2016

  3. New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Watkins v British Medical Association

  4. New decision issued by the Certification Officer: Foden v National Education Union

  5. New Certification Officer decision: Kelly v Musicians' Union

  6. New CO decision- Morley v GMB

  7. CO Annual Report deposited in Parliament

  8. New decision issued by the Certification Officer: McFadden v Unite the Union

  9. New decision issued by the Certification Officer: Jennings v GMB

  10. Information regarding The Workers' Union

  11. New CO Decision Kidd v Musicians' Union

  12. Decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Alam v Unite the Union

  13. New decision: Simpson v Unite the Union

  14. New decision- Simpson v Unite the Union (4)

  15. New decision

  16. Certification Office update

  17. New decision issued by the Certification Officer: St John v Unite the Union

  18. new CO decision

  19. New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- [Crew v Aegis the Union]

  20. New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Dunham v Society of Radiographers

  21. New decision issued by the Certification Officer: Hussain v CWU (2) (Part 1)

  22. New decisions issued by the Certification Officer:- Watkins v British Medical Association/ Parlour v NASUWT

  23. Certification Officer's Annual Report published

  24. New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Watkins v British Medical Association

  25. New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Bell v Unite the Union

  26. new CO decision

  27. new CO decision

  28. New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Simpson v Unite the Union

  29. New decision issued by the Certification Officer: - Dosanjh v POA

  30. New decision issued by the Certification Officer: Bromfield v GMB

  31. new decision

  32. Lanarkshire Master Plumbers' Association has been removed from the schedule of employers’ associations.

  33. New decision issued by the Certification Officer.

  34. New decision issued by the Certification Officer (Blackledge v University and College Union)

  35. New decision issued by the Certification Officer: Lascelles v Prospect

  36. Hussain v CWU - new decision issued

  37. New decision issued by the Assistant Certification Officer

  38. New decision issued by the Certification Officer.

  39. Announcement on the publication of the Certification Officer's Annual Report

  40. New decision in the case of Coyne & Brooks v Unite the Union issued by the Assistant Certification Officer.

  41. New decision issued by the Certification Officer.

  42. Decision for Chisholm v Unite the Union

  43. New decision issued by the Assistant Certification Officer.

  44. An error in the wording has been amended

  45. Findings letter published in relation to allegations of financial irregularities relating to National Union of Mineworkers (Northumberland Area)

  46. New decision issued by the Certification Officer.

  47. New decision issued by the Certification Officer.

  48. New decision issued by the Certification Officer

  49. New decision issued by the Certification Officer

  50. New decision issued by the Certification Officer: Beaumont v Unite the Union (No.5)

  51. new CO decision

  52. New decision issued by the Certification Officer: Forbes v Scottish Secondary Teachers’ Association.

  53. The Annual Report of the Certification Officer (2015-2016) is today published and laid before Parliament. It is available to be downloaded from the Certification Officer’s website.

  54. New decision issued by the Certification Officer.

  55. New decision issued by the Certification Officer.

  56. New decision of the Certification Officer

  57. New decision issued by the Certification Officer.

  58. New decision published by the Certification Officer

  59. The Annual Report of the Certification Officer (2014-2015) is published and laid before Parliament today. It is available to be downloaded from the Certification Officer’s website. Hard copies of the report are available upon request to the Certification Office (info@certoffice.org).

  60. New Decision issued by the Certification Officer.

  61. New Decision issued by the Certification Officer.

  62. Three new decisions issued by the Certification Officer.

  63. New decision issued by the Certification Officer: Groves (2) v Society of Authors

  64. Singh v Unite the Union (18/03/2015): Mr Singh alleged that Unite the Union breached its rules in relation to his alleged removal from office. The Certification Officer dismissed the complaint.

  65. New Decision issued by the Certification Officer: Beaumont (3) v Unite the Union

  66. Lastest decision by the Certification Officer: Barton v UNISON (23 January 2015).

  67. New Decision issued by the Certification Officer: Illingworth v National Union of Teachers (NUT)

  68. New decision published - Conway v NUT.

Update history

2024-03-26 15:06
New decision issued by the Certification Officer: International Alliance of App-Based Transport WorkersNew decision issued by the Certification Officer: Dent v National Education Union

2024-01-31 16:41
New Certification Officer decision:- Embery (3) v FBU

2024-01-18 08:54
New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Popplestone v Royal College of Nursing

2024-01-08 08:42
New decision issued by the Certification Officer: Sartin v UNISON

2023-12-15 14:01
Scottish Engineering has been removed from the list of employers’ associations

2023-10-25 15:35
Union of Pilots, Engineers & Cabin Crew (UPECC) has been entered on the list of trade unions held by the Certification Officer with effect from 20 October 2023PTSC has been removed from the Certification Officer’s list of Trade Unions on 6 October 2023 because it no longer meets the statutory definition of a Trade Union.The National Association of Farriers, Blacksmiths and Agricultural Engineers has been removed from the Certification Officer’s list of Employers’ Associations on 27 September because it no longer meets the statutory definition of an Employers’ Association.Autonomous Workers’ Union (AW Union) has been removed from the Certification Officer’s list of Trade Union on 14 August 2023 because it no longer meets the statutory definition of a Trade Union.

2023-10-19 13:11
CO announces achievement in obtaining IIP Gold accreditation

2023-07-06 15:48
The Certification Officer’s Annual Report 2022-2023 published

2023-06-26 16:32
Empower The Workers’ Union has been entered on the list of trade unions held by the Certification Officer.

2023-05-31 10:52
Security Industry Federation added to the list of trade unions

2023-05-25 13:33
New CO decision – Simpson v Unite the Union

2023-05-12 12:58
National Employees Union and The Women’s Rugby Association have been entered on the list of trade unions held by the Certification Officer.

2023-05-09 13:40
Stage Directors U.K. Union has been entered on the list of trade unions held by the Certification Officer

2023-03-30 17:32
New decision of the Certification Officer: Dawes v Royal College of Nursing (RCN)

2023-03-30 17:03
New CO decision: Dawes v Royal College of Nursing (RCN)

2023-01-09 12:19
Solid Trade Union: application for a certificate of independence approved

2022-11-22 16:46
Application for a certificate of independence received from Solid Trade Union

2022-11-09 16:02
New Certification Officer decision issued: McKay v UNISON

2022-11-07 14:08
New decision issued by the Certification Officer: Eager v Equity

2022-11-02 16:14
Solid Trade Union has been entered on the list of trade unions held by the Certification Officer

2022-08-10 10:59
New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Taylor v NASUWT

2022-08-01 10:53
New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Sidhu v National Education Union

2022-07-22 10:12
New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Lowe v National Education Union

2022-07-15 10:17
Certification Officer’s Annual Report published

2022-07-08 15:59
New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Evans (2) v Prospect

2022-07-08 15:20
New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Dawes v Royal College of Nursing of the United Kingdom

2022-04-01 10:17
New powers for the Certification Officer from 1 April 2022.

2022-03-25 10:19
New decision issued by the Certification Officer: Embery v Fire Brigades Union

2022-01-18 14:09

2021-12-15 15:02
Certification Officer: Implementation of the remaining provisions of the Trade Union Act 2016

2021-11-30 09:44
New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Meechan & Others v British Air Line Pilots Association

2021-11-25 15:30
New CO decision: Morley v Unison

2021-11-23 10:11
New CO decision: Embery v FBU

2021-11-16 10:48
New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Watkins v British Medical Association

2021-11-08 15:37
New decision issued by the Certification Officer: Foden v National Education Union

2021-10-26 09:33
New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Morley v Unison

2021-10-11 13:33
New decision issued by the Certification Officer:-Wilson v Unison

2021-10-04 10:41
New decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Parry v USDAW

2021-05-20 11:41
New decision issued by the Certification Officer: McFadden v Unite the Union

2020-12-11 10:50
Information regarding The Workers' Union

2020-12-09 13:57
New CO Decision Kidd v Musicians' Union

2020-11-23 17:18
Breach of union rules decision: Singh v University College Union (UCU) published

2020-11-04 14:28
Decision issued by the Certification Officer:- Alam v Unite the Union

2020-10-21 15:50
New decision: Simpson v Unite the Union