Workers disciplined after watching World Cup game in pub

The BBC is reporting on two cases where employers have taken disciplinary action over workers taking time off work without permission to watch the England vs. Nigeria World Cup match.

In the first case, which has received considerable coverage, two London road sweeperswere suspended after being spotted watching the game in a pub. The GMB union has demanded the pair are reinstated immediately, else the employer could face a mass walkout of cleaners.

GMB Spokesman Dan Hodges said: "This is a staggering over-reaction from the company and we cannot let it go unchallenged. There is absolutely no excuse for imposing such a draconian penalty simply for watching a football match." The employer - cleaning firm MRS - confirmed the men had been suspended for drinking alcohol, not watching the match.

Meanwhile, two contract workers from the North-East were seen leaving their factory workplace to watch the match in nearby pub. The employer contacted the employment agency, who promptly dismissed the workers by text message. The workers - who initially thought the text was a joke - claim that they were given permission to watch the game by a Foreman, as long as they clocked out.

Employers should prepare to face far worse problems with unauthorised absence if England get through to face Brazil in the quarter finals, a game which takes place at 7.30am on Friday 21 June. Employers are strongly advised to take account of employees wanting to watch these games, and to introduce flexible working practices where possible.
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