This news is a few weeks old, but of interest to anyone who follows punitive damages. As reported by the Daily Express, “A lesbian soldier was awarded £186,000 compensation yesterday after she was sexually harassed by a male sergeant who then tried to wreck her career. . . . The payout included £50,000 in exemplary damages, £20,000 in aggravated damages and £30,000 for hurt feelings.” The paper reports that this is the first time an English employment tribunal has awarded exemplary damages.

Update: This article indicates an appeal has been filed challenging the award. [1/8/09 – LP]