London-based Allen & Overy has been hit by a series of sex and race discrimination allegations by members of staff in the past year, with five claims settled internally or outstanding.

The latest claims — which are being brought against the firm by intranet projects manager Shazia Wahab — were reaching the close of an employment tribunal. Wahab has made two separate claims against the firm for discrimination covering sex and race, and discrimination against her as a part-time employee.

The Department of Trade & Industry has also confirmed that A&O faced two separate race claims made by vocation scheme applicant Shahid Ghafoor, although these were withdrawn in March this year.

A claim relating to race, sex discrimination and breach of contract was settled internally with secretary Desiree Stewart, as was a claim for equal pay made by IT support analyst Tiku Patel and a claim for constructive and unfair dismissal made by clerical worker Alan Black.

Wahab, who is still employed by the firm pending the outcome of the hearing, recently developed a pro bono and community work intranet site for the firm.

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