Background:

The Complainant, representing himself, challenged his dismissal for alleged gross misconduct by the Respondent company. He was accused of using a company van for personal travel and interfering with its electronic tracker, leading to a disciplinary meeting in December 2023, and dismissal following further meetings that week. The Complainant claimed his dismissal was a pretext to favour another employee amid the company's financial difficulties. He argued the accusations were fabricated, highlighting inconsistencies in the company’s practices, such as allowing private van use for personal activities, including his transport of motorbikes and his daughter's sports events. He also pointed out the Respondent’s use of company vans for leisure. No formal HR processes, investigations, or warnings were provided, and he