Question

UK case law/authority needed for conflict of interest point:

George (name changed) works at two companies- at both places as a part-time employee. Company A & Company B.

Ironically, the law firm for both employers happens to be the same, XYZ employment firm. This is purely coincidental, and employers A & B have no relation with each other.

George is lodging an employment suit against Employer A. When he found out that the defense lawyer's firm of employer A is the same as the law firm that represents employer-B, he protested for the conflict of interest. This is because he still works at Employer-B and has had some conversations with XYZ in the past regarding issues on behalf of Employer-B. Also, Employer-B has passed a lot of information indirectly about George to XYZ law firm and hence George is worried that this will be leaked to used against him in his fight against Employer-A. Moreover, he is worried that the results will be shared with his Employer-B, where he still works and this can affect his job at employer-B.

XVY however denies conflict of interest and has refused to defend Employer-A against George.

Can you find some strong UK authorities to protest with substance and possibly refer to the SRA?

Is this used by the counsel?

*Below is the email by the XYZ solicitor to deny George the request Not to act for employer-A*

Dear George

As you know, I have assisted a specific client on a number of matters relating to their patients. Some of those matters have also concerned you, and having briefly reviewed those matters I can see that you have at all times been separately represented. Whilst I have, at my client's instructions, cooperated with you and your solicitors on those other matters, I have not acted for you and you have not been a client of mine or of Colemans.

Accordingly, I do not consider that Colemans are prevented, at all or by reason of conflict of interests, from acting for our clients on any matter that might be contrary to your interests.

I trust this clarifies the position but if you do wish to discuss it any further please let me know. I am of course very happy to provide you with details of our complaints process should you consider this necessary.

Kind regards