City boss told staff: ‘Badminton is a sport for gays and players should get a dress’
A City boss at a firm accused of racial harassment discrimination told his staff that Badminton is a sport for “gays”, a tribunal has heard.
Neil Campbell, head of alternative investments at brokerage firm Tullett Prebon, is alleged to have described the racquet game as one for the “gay and dainty”, and that participants should “get a dress”.
The Independent reports former employee Kishore Kansal complained about the comments as part of a grievance procedure he had taken against Mr Campbell, before walking out of his job as a broker, subsequently being fired for gross misconduct in his absence.
Mr Kansal was on a £130,000-a-year-salary after joining the firm in May 2012. He has taken Mr Prebon to an employment tribunal, citing racial harassment, discrimination, unpaid bonuses, a public interest disclosure, and not being allowed to take, or be paid for, annual statutory leave.
The claims are denied by Tullett Prebon, and six of Mr Kansal’s ex-colleagues.
Paul Dunkley, one of seven heads of division at Tullet Prebon, told the tribunal he investigated Mr Kansal’s complaint and interviewed Mr Campbell over the comments which the latter said he “may have made”.
Paul Gilroy QC, representing Mr Kansal, asked whether the comments should have at least warranted Mr Campbell being invited to a disciplinary meeting.
Mr Dunkley said he recommended Mr Campbell be sent on a diversity training course.
A spokesman for the company said: “Tullett Prebon denies all allegations and defends these claims vigorously.”
The tribunal continues.
