Lord Harris of Greenwhichasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether, in view of the attempt reportedly being made by the Council of the London Borough of Newham to remove the Director of Education, they will consider taking steps to protect local government officials from being dismissed for reasons in no way related to the efficiency with which they carry out their duties.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of the Environment (The Earl of Avon)This Government deplore unreasonable conduct, wherever it occurs. However, local authorities are responsible for management issues affecting their staff. I should point out that the employment protection legislation includes the right not to be unfairly dismissed.