Scientist wins racism claim

An Asian research chemist won pounds 15,000 damages after alleging that he was unfairly selected for redundancy because of his race. The company, a major chemicals group, which has insisted on a confidentiality clause in the settlement, has also promoted him two grades which is worth pounds 2,400 a year in salary.

Dr Iqbal Kahn, 38, reached a settlement out of court ahead of an industrial tribunal which was expected to last a week. He was made redundant by the company two years ago from a pounds 20,000 a year post as a senior chemist. He subsequently was re-employed as a pounds 14,000 a year assistant chemist. Applications for more senior posts were rejected.