EMPLOYERS could face sexual harassment claims arising from after-work drinks or leaving parties, warns Rebecca Hilsenrath, who chairs the Equality and Human Rights Commission, on the grounds that firms are responsible for any action which falls ‘within the course of employment’.

Pub banter and even facial expressions can amount to unacceptable behaviour even if ‘that is not how it was intended’, she said.

Is it time for us all to put paper bags over our heads, or better still, never set foot out of the house? Discuss!