Boris wants £8k of legal fees from migrant workers who withdrew claim
james@slpmedia.co.uk
Maritza Castillo Calle from Tulse Hill and Wilson Ayala from Brixton took the Prime Minister to court over his claim that he would not extend the Brexit deadline beyond October 31, even though he was legally obliged to do so by the Benn Act passed in Parliament a month earlier.
The two workers and another worker from east London started legal proceedings against Mr Johnson with the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) as they feared a reduction in migrant worker’s rights with a no deal Brexit.
But Mr Johnson went back on his declaration of leaving the EU by October 31 and the workers withdrew the claim.
Now Government lawyers are arguing that because the claim was withdrawn the claimants are liable to cover the Government’s legal costs of at least £8,000.
Mr Ayala said: “I am very concerned and fearful as a migrant worker about a no-deal Brexit
which would make me lose the few employment rights offered by the European community.
“Migrant workers like myself will be hit the hardest, in a sector already affected by low wages and exploitative working conditions.
“With the support of my union, IWGB, we are asking that a Brexit deal is negotiated to protect our rights and which would cause the least social and economic impact on our families.
“Boris Johnson’s asking us to pay legal costs of £8,000 does not scare or intimidate us, we will continue the struggle to fight for equal rights for everyone in this country.
“Many thanks to everyone who has supported us so far in this just fight.”
The workers and their union have started a fundraiser to help cover the costs they are being held liable for and any extra legal costs they may incur.
Maritza Castillo Calle said: “Precarious migrant workers like myself have been terrified by the prospect of a no-deal Brexit and the impact it could have on our most basic rights.
“We decided to take action to protect our communities, but now because Boris Johnson lied about his intention to not seek an extension, we are being asked to pay thousands of pounds.
“By handing us this bill, it’s clear that this Government for the rich is trying to intimidate ourselves and other working class people from ever daring to hold it to account.”
Downing Street were asked for a comment, but were unable to provide one at the time of going to press.