LONDON: 

sidelined: Julie-Anne Reed faced discrimination

A woman who went into depression because her boss repeatedly criticised her big breasts has been awarded a compensation of £30,000 (Rs 26 lakh) by an employment tribunal.

Estate agent Julie-Anne Reed filed a case of sexual discrimination and harassment against her boss Gerald Probert, who sacked her when she protested against his remarks.

Reed, with a 36 DD chest size, alleged Probert often told her, "You should either reduce the size of your breasts or get some new blouses." On one occasion, the boss pointed out to her that her blouse was "slightly gaping open" between two fastened buttons.

Reed said he also delayed her pay. When she complained to him about it as well as about his remarks, he sacked her. She worked seven years for the agency and is now selling advertisement space at a lesser salary.

Probert did not attend the hearing at the employment tribunal .