BNP Member Loses Damages Claim

By Alan Jones, PA Industrial Correspondent | Sunday, 27 March 2005 | Click here for original article

A member of the far right British National Party has lost his bid to win £60,000 in compensation for being expelled from one of the country's biggest trade unions, it was learned today.

John Walker, from Mancot, Flintshire in North Wales, was seeking damages from the Transport & General Workers Union, which expelled him that year for expressing views which were contrary to its rules.

Mr Walker, 42, a leading member of the BNP in Wales, took his complaint to an employment tribunal, which has ruled against him.

In a written judgment, the tribunal said that comments made by Mr Walker, including telling a local newspaper he was "standing up for the interests of the white community" could encourage racism.

A spokesman for the union described the ruling as "very good news", adding: "The tribunal has now confirmed the union's decision to expel Mr Walker for advocating views which were against the union's rules, was justified.

"Mr Walker's case was considered by the internal disciplinary process and confirmed by the union's national executive."

Mr Walker is believed to be considering an appeal.