Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Egalitarianism or intimidation

UK civil servant sues over black female colleague getting $72K higher salary


A senior civil servant is suing the British government for sex and race discrimination because a black female colleague is paid $72,000 a year more than he, according to reports.

Matthew Parr is one of five HM inspectors of constabulary overseeing the UK’s police forces, with an annual salary of more than $185,000 and an $11,000 living allowance, Metro UK reported from a tribunal hearing Tuesday.

But after taking the job, he found out that a colleague, Wendy Williams, was getting paid $257,500 — more than she was initially offered because her bosses feared being accused of discrimination, the report said.

He is suing current UK Home Secretary Priti Patel in what is believed to be the first case of its kind, the Telegraph said.

“This is a question of fairness. I am a white male — my race and sex had a clear influence [over] decisions on my pay,” he said, according to Metro UK.

“It is also a policy that was influenced by race and sex,” he insisted of the pay gap, while acknowledging he is “paid a relatively high salary.”

Wendy Williams reportedly earned more money than Matthew Parr because of her sex and race, according to the lawsuit.
Wendy Williams reportedly earned more money than Matthew Parr because of her sex and race, according to the lawsuit.
HMICFRS

“Were all [inspectors] to be paid the salary currently paid to me I would be satisfied,” he said.

Patel denies discrimination. Central London employment judge Richard Nicolle said a decision would be given in the next few weeks.

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