The annual increase to the limits on tribunal awards have been published. They take effect as of 1 February 2003 which means where the event giving rise to the complaint to a Tribunal occurs on or after 1 February 2003 the new limits will apply. For example in unfair dismissal claims, the new rates will apply where the effective date of termination, not the date of the tribunal hearing, is on or after 1 February 2003.
The main increases are:
Maximum amount of 'a week's pay' (for the purpose of calculating, eg, the basic award or redundancy payments):
Current: £00,250; From 1 Feb 2003: £00,260
Maximum compensatory award:
Current: £52,600; From 1 Feb 2003: £53,500
Minimum basic award in prescribed situations (eg trade union related dismissal):
Current: £03,400; From 1 Feb 2003: £03,500