From 1st October 2004 the normal employment tribunal rules of procedure are set out in Employment Tribunals (Constitution and Rules of Procedure) Regulations 2004, SI 2004/1861 schedule 1.

A tribunal must always provide reasons for a judgment. The reasons will be in writing only if one of the parties so requests within 14 days or for the Employment Appeal Tribunal if it so requests (without time limt). Rule 30(6) specifies minimum information which must be provided in written reasons for a judgment. This includes information to explain how relevant findings of fact and applicable law have been applied in order to determine the issues.

Apart from the requirement that reasons must be given for judgments, tribunals must also provide reasons for any order they make if so requested before or at the hearing at which the order is made. Reasons need not be given in full form for an order as opposed to for a judgment.

To go back to a linked index of the rules, click here on Procedure of Employment Tribunals/2004 rules . See also notes at Human Rights/fair trial .