Immigration firm faces race action by solicitor

TRIBUNAL CLAIM: Magrath & Co hits back over dismissal

A leading corporate immigration law firm will this week defend itself in a race discrimination claim brought by a former immigration solicitor.

Gillian Blavo, who now works at City firm Philip Glah & Co, is suing Magrath & Co and partner Rosalind Morris following her dismissal at the end of a four-month probation last year.

The firm is contesting the claim.

Ms Blavo, who joined Magraths in May 2000, claims she was told she would be subjected to monthly reviews which no other probationary employees had to undergo.

It is agreed that only one meeting actually took place, which the firm insists was just a one-off event.

She also claims that when she was dismissed at the end of the probationary period in September, she was told she lacked enthusiasm and motivation - allegations she says were not substantiated, adding there were no concerns with her work.Magrath & Co partner Nick Goldstone, who is acting for the firm, said: 'We dispute the claim vigorously and hope to be vindicated.'He said the firm contested the allegation that the grounds for dismissal were not substantiated, saying the decision was taken after 'very close' consideration of feedback from other lawyers at the firm.

'We very much regret that she has taken these steps,' he added.

Michael Webster of London firm Webster Dixon is acting for Ms Blavo.Neil Rose