This is the second GB case in two weeks which could give us an indication of how early conciliation (the routing of claims via Acas before proceeding to tribunal) might work when it is introduced in Northern Ireland and claims are routed through the LRA before going into the tribunal system.

In Cranwell v Cullen last week it appeared that no cases can be heard by employment tribunals unless a discussion with a conciliation officer takes place first. This case of Sterling shows the EAT taking a similarly robust line, this time in relation to an incorrect early conciliation number being put on the form. The form was submitted late as a result and the tribunal had no jurisdiction to hear the claim. http://www.employmentappeals.gov.uk/Public/Upload/14_04390440fhwwATDM.doc