Akker retired 'by the book'

Natfhe has publicly defended its role in the events which led to general secretary John Akker's sudden suspension and subsequent early retirement.

Jean Cooke, chairwoman of Natfhe's national executive council membership and organisation committee, said that the union had followed all agreed procedures regarding Mr Akker's surprise decision to take early retirement on May 15.

The union's position contrasts with possible moves by Mr Akker to challenge the union over the procedures leading to his suspension which came a few days before he signed an early retirement deal. Mr Akker may take his case to the Commissioner for the Rights of Trade Union Members.

Ms Cooke, who issued a statement on Monday, said that the union had signed a confidentiality clause and was prevented from revealing the exact details. But she said that procedures were agreed with Mr Akker's union, the Manufacturing Science and Finance union, and that she could state categorically that none of these agreements was broken.

Mr Akker's post will be advertised on September 1. It could take another three months to fill the post.