In a controversial case involving a Christian teacher known as ‘Hannah’, the tribunal bench has seen a significant change. Chris Tansley, ex-leader of the trade union UNISON, has been dismissed due to concerns about potential bias. Hannah, who questioned the social transition of a child under the guidance of the LGBT group Stonewall, is at the center of this case.
Stonewall, known for its influential LGBT advocacy, has previously received considerable financial backing from the US government. The teacher’s legal team sought Tansley’s removal, highlighting his prior endorsements of pro-trans causes and associations with the leftist group Hope Not Hate.
Judge Peter McTigue agreed with this motion, emphasizing the necessity for tribunals to avoid any “apparent bias.” He stated, “Tribunals must be completely above any reasonable suspicion of bias or impartiality. It must be free from ‘apparent bias.'”
Judge McTigue further explained, “Mr Tansley should be removed from the tribunal. Hypothetical observer would believe the ‘risk was more than minimal.’ Given the sensitive nature of this case and that Mr Tansley was paid by the respondent up until 2023 he should be removed for ‘apparent bias.'”
This case has faced previous delays over similar bias allegations. Last year, a hearing was aborted after a panel member’s social media posts, which were critical of Christians and conservatives, came to light.
Jed Purkis, a GMB union official, faced reprimand for his online comments suggesting that only atheists should hold public office. He remarked, “you won’t catch us killing in the name of our non-god,” and criticized Christians with statements like, “If they’re that f***ing super how come there’s so much s**t going on in the world?”
The Christian Legal Centre is backing Hannah’s legal proceedings as she contests her dismissal from the primary school.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
