Discrimination case to go to appeal

A gay clergyman who previously lost an Employment Tribunal claim which he lodged against the Church of England has been granted the right to appeal the decision.

Canon Jeremy Pemberton had argued he was discriminated against after being prevented from assuming a role as a hospital chaplain after marrying his partner Laurence Cunningham.

He had been barred from taking up duties by the acting Bishop of Southwell amid claims he had defied ecclesiastical law.

His claim was originally thrown out but now the matter will be re-examined by the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT).

Mr Pemberton welcomed the news that a hearing will take place later this year.

“It’s important to appeal because this is a test case and test cases need testing,” he said.

“The judgement given in the Tribunal had some things my lawyers felt needed further testing.”

For more information on our employment law services or advice on Employment Tribunal claims please visit or contact Richard Woodman, Gemma Ospedale, Caroline Doran, Helen Murphie or Kevin James.