Bolton MBC has been fined £11,000 for failing to reinstate its head of agency and development, after an employment tribunal said he had been unfairly dismissed. Twelve months ago, the council was ordered to reinstate Bernard Summers, who had accused a senior member of staff of misconduct. But, when Mr Summers returned to work, he was told his job no longer existed, and he refused to accept an alternative post. The tribunal found the council could have reinstated Mr Summers and imposed the fine, in addition to a basic award and compensation which will be made when the tribunal reconvenes on 16 May. Mr Summers left the council in 2004 after 21 years. He said he had been harassed and victimised after his complaint. A spokesperson for Bolton MBC said Mr Summers' former post was not available when he returned to work. ‘He was offered a position of similar responsibility which would have seen him managing the council's half-a-billion pound property portfolio.' The council said it would comply with the order of the tribunal.
