Preston Domino's Pizza store tells staff 'speak English'

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-lancashire-25131475

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A man has quit his job at a pizza chain in protest at an "offensive" sign banning staff from using languages other than English while at work.

Stuart Horton from Preston had worked at Domino's Pizza in Ashton as a delivery driver for five years.

The sign, which he said was in a staff area, threatened disciplinary action and said speaking other languages could be seen as bullying or harassment.

Domino's said it was "a little strong" but "a common language is vital".

Mr Horton said: "My friends from different countries like India, Pakistan, Poland and Hungary also took offence to this (sign)."

Lynn Collins, regional secretary of the North West Trade Union Congress, said: "This is an employer who took on these staff, employed them knowing they were multi-lingual, and what a tremendous shame it is that they don't see the advantage to having a multi-lingual workforce in an area as diverse as the Preston community."

'Workplace bullying'

The sign read: "All staff. Whilst you are working at this store you must speak in English.

"This if for ease of communication, safety and due to some complaints from staff at other stores.

"Anybody ignoring this could find disciplinary procedures followed, as it could be seen as a form of workplace bullying/harassment."

In a statement, Domino's Pizza said: "To ensure a good flow of communication in our stores, the use of a common language is spoken at work to avoid confusion and to create a more welcoming environment.

"It is also paramount that all safety aspects are adhered to and for this reason a common language is vital.

"The tone of the poster shown is a little strong and we will be picking this up with the franchisee."