Judge caught drinking on the job and formally warned by supervisors

A labor judge who was caught drinking at work was given an official warning by his superiors.

Pauline Hughes dumped alcohol in her chambers during a break in a case in August.

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The hearing was adjourned when her two colleagues on the panel noticed that she looked drunk.

Judge Hughes said she had “little recollection” of the Birmingham incident.

She did not deny drinking on the premises.

A source said: “It is shocking and worrying behavior from someone in this position.”

The Judicial Conduct Investigations Office said it considered Judge Hughes’ remorse.

It added: “Judge Hughes, who has served the Tribunal for many years, has given assurances on her future conduct, including with regard to alcohol consumption.”