(qlmbusinessnews.com . Wed 8th Jan, 2025) London, UK —

McDonald’s UK Boss Reveals 29 Staff Dismissed Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

The UK head of McDonald’s, Alistair Macrow, has disclosed that 29 employees were dismissed in the past year following allegations of sexual harassment. The revelations were made during a parliamentary hearing, where Mr Macrow described the allegations as “abhorrent and unacceptable.”

This follows a BBC investigation revealing ongoing reports of sexual abuse and harassment at McDonald’s restaurants, despite Mr Macrow’s previous pledge to address the issue. Workers claimed that the promised reforms have failed to eliminate abusive behaviour.

Since the initial investigation in July 2023, the BBC has received 160 new reports of abuse, while the UK’s Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has recorded 300 incidents of harassment. The EHRC has vowed to intervene further.

During the hearing, Liam Byrne, chair of the Business and Trade Select Committee, challenged Mr Macrow, asking whether McDonald’s had become a “predator’s paradise.”

Mr Macrow outlined steps the company has taken, stating, “We aim to provide a secure, safe workplace where everyone is respected.” He revealed that 75 allegations of harassment had been reported in the past year, leading to disciplinary action in 47 cases and the dismissal of 29 individuals.

ast-Food Giant McDonald’s Under Fire: Harassment Claims and EHRC Probe

While Mr Macrow acknowledged progress, he admitted he could not guarantee the complete eradication of harassment. “I won’t be happy until there are no such cases,” he said, emphasising that open communication and a willingness to report issues are vital for improvement.

Zero-Hours Contracts Under Scrutiny

The hearing also addressed McDonald’s widespread use of zero-hours contracts, which cover 89% of its UK workforce. Although McDonald’s claims workers can opt for minimum guaranteed hours, some employees told the BBC they were never offered this choice.

Critics argue that insecure hours create an imbalance of power, enabling abusive practices. While Mr Macrow defended the flexibility of zero-hours contracts as popular among young workers, he conceded that workplace abuses must be eradicated.

McDonald’s Pledges Stronger Action

The EHRC, which signed a legally binding agreement with McDonald’s in 2023 to protect employees from harassment, has vowed to take stronger measures. The watchdog has already established a hotline for complaints and continues to monitor the company’s adherence to its commitments.

Mr Macrow insists that McDonald’s has implemented “industry-leading practices” to enhance worker safety. However, calls for greater transparency and accountability persist as the fast-food giant seeks to rebuild trust with its workforce and the public.

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