Former Home Office Permanent Secretary Sir Philip Rutnam has formally begun legal action against Home Secretary Priti Patel, claiming “constructive dismissal”.
Sir Philip was the top official at the Home Office before he quit in early March , citing bullying behaviour by Ms Patel towards subordinates.
In his televised resignation statement , Sir Philip accused Ms Patel of orchestrating a “vicious” campaign against him, of lying about her involvement in it and of creating a climate of fear in her department.
Ms Patel has denied the allegations.
In a statement, FDA general secretary Dave Penman said: “On February 29 2020, Sir Philip Rutnam resigned as Permanent Secretary of the Home Office, indicating that he intended to pursue a claim of constructive dismissal.
“Following his resignation, the FDA instructed Gavin Mansfield QC, head of Littleton Chambers and employment law specialist, as counsel to advise Sir Philip, supported by Clive Howard, senior principal lawyer, employment and partnership at Slater and Gordon.
“This morning, Sir Philip, with the support of his legal team and the FDA, submitted a claim to the employment tribunal for unfair (constructive) dismissal and whistleblowing against the Home Secretary.
“Sir Philip will not be making any further comment at this time.”
The news of the latest move in his legal case comes as the Cabinet Office is expected to conclude an inquiry into claims that the minister clashed with senior officials and belittled colleagues.
