Unconfirmed reports have just come in suggesting that Oliver Smith (brother of Humphrey), in a heated exchange with a member of his Dray team, served instant dismissal to the man.
If the details are correct, then Oliver Smith has not only breached UK employment law, but Human Rights legislation - and is not fit to manage anyone.
With the 'brothers grim', cavalier attitude to employees rights - it's only a matter of time before we see some successful court action, resulting in widespread negative publicity for the brothers and the company. Large fines could also follow - but sadly, fines would not be anywhere near as effective as imprisonment - which would give other members of the family the opportunity to save the business - and redeem their once (but now very tarnished) 'good name'.
It would appear that the dismissal incident arose from a recent delivery/collection visit by the Dray, to Scotland. It's alleged that they were permitted a maximum of ?22 (each, per evening) to secure a place to sleep - i.e. 'bed and breakfast'.
Despite best efforts, on this occasion, the Draymen could only source a venue which charged ?22.50. However, when they had handed in their receipts to the brewery, they were refused payment beyond the ?22.
Now we know it's only 50 pence to you and I (proportionally 0.001p to the Smiths?), but there was obviously a principal here. And whilst the Drayman gallantly stood his ground, and insisted on recompense for his outlay - It is alleged that Oliver Smith, blew a fuse, shouting he would not pay the 50 pence, and was supposedly furiously pointing his finger at the victim, in a rapid stabbing manner.
If it turns out to be true, that a Drayman
has been dismissed on the spot for such - and that there had been no prior warning, letters, or consultation - then any tribunal in the land will find OS, guilty of breach of employment law. And if so, let's hope there's a fair retribution to follow.
Finally, if anyone has any more details, of can in fact confirm whether this incident is true - then please do so by replying to this thread.
Again - if anyone from the brewery (in an official capacity) would like to respond to this posting - then please feel free to do so. No posts will be deleted or edited (with exception of breach of law, or our T&C's). This is an open - level playing field. Even for the Chuckle Brothers!
