P&O will not face criminal action after laying off nearly 800 workers, Bankruptcy Service says | Business newsletter
P&O Ferries will not face criminal proceedings for laying off nearly 800 workers earlier this year, the Bankruptcy Service has determined.
The company caused outrage and was summoned before MPs to answer questions in March when lay off hundreds of workers without notice.
Business Minister Kwasi Kwarteng has asked the Bankruptcy Service to investigate whether any violations have been committed.
But the government agency said in a statement it had determined there was “no realistic prospect of a conviction”.
“Following a full and rigorous criminal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the employees admitted by P&O Ferries, we have concluded that we will not initiate criminal proceedings,” the spokesperson said. .”
A civil investigation is underway.
Nautilus International, a union representing marine professionals, said the Bankruptcy Service’s decision would be a blow to “removed” workers.
Secretary General Mark Dickinson said: “This is an extremely disappointing decision and will be faced with the disappointment and anger of the 786 crew members and their families, who have been disqualified by P&O Ferries. cruel way.
“Just a day after parent company P&O Ferries posted record profits, putting the company’s claims of operational sustainability in doubt, we are further frustrated by a system that doesn’t punish owners. clear criminal meaning.
“The message is clear, P&O Ferries must be held accountable for their shameful actions and we will continue to campaign to ensure that the CEO and his fellow directors are held accountable and make sure this never happens again.”
During hearings in Congress, businesses admitted they had broken a law that required them to report fines.
At the time, bosses said this was because no union had accepted the new proposals.
A government spokesman told the BBC: “In laying off 800 dedicated staff in place, P&O Ferries not only acted callously but also failed to uphold the high standards we expect from British businesses. .
“Given their appalling behavior, it is disappointing that the company will not face criminal proceedings.”
It comes after the Transport Secretary warned that the company would have “no choice in law” other than to pay seafarers the minimum wage after the company’s owners report record profits after mass layoffs.
Giving an ultimatum, Grant Shapps said the company would be forced to pull out and so should make the change now, before repeating his claim against P&O boss Peter Hebblethwaite.
