Shah Qureshi, the head of employment at Bindmans, the London law firm, acted for Tim Nicholson, an environmentalist, in a Employment Appeal Tribunal hearing which ruled that his views about climate change and the environment are protected by the UK’s anti-discrimination legislation.

What were the main challenges in this case and the possible implications?

We were pushing boundaries by arguing Tim’s views should have the same legal protection as religious beliefs. We had a fantastic team including Dinah Rose, QC, Ivan Hare and Tim himself.

We argued that Tim’s beliefs, although science-based, were philosophical because they involved a substantial aspect of human life and were underpinned by moral values. Mr Justice Burton agreed and people with such beliefs are now protected from discrimination. The judgment opens the door for protection of other beliefs.

What was your worst day as a lawyer?

As a trainee I represented an employee in an unfair dismissal case. I had prepared meticulously but I did not allow for Tube delays. I entered the hearing late and apologised. After a long silence, the tribunal chairman admonished me for not explaining my delay. I learnt always to allow extra travelling time.

What was your most memorable experience as a lawyer?

I was privileged to work on the Ladbroke Grove rail inquiry where it became clear that 37 people had died needlessly. The findings led to the establishment of the Rail Safety and Standards Board, improvements in rail safety and Network Rail pleading guilty to charges under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?

My childhood goal was to emulate Diego Maradona or John Barnes. My results ranged from genius to embarrassment. Growing up as an Asian in Britain made me conscious of discrimination so I’ve always admired those who fought injustice, including Gandhi, Jinnah and my training principals, Louise Christian and Sadiq Khan. My father gave up college to support our family and worked 12 to 14-hour shifts in a glass factory. Through perseverance he eventually opened his own business and my mother then picked up the reins. My wife and son remind me that there is more to life than work.

Why did you become a lawyer?

The Oscar-winning film Gandhi gave me my first real taste of the law. I saw that change for the better could be achieved despite great injustice.

What would your advice be to anyone wanting a career in law?

Talk to those in the profession first. Do not underestimate the importance of mentors. Learn from your mistakes.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Continuing to help people to assert their rights.

l_tsang@hotmail.com

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