The saddest thing is that this ever got as far as an employment tribunal. The courts verdict reminds us that an airline Ops Manual and employment contract are legally binding.
Quite why sticking to the rules should even be an issue beats me. I take my hat off to Captain Leslie; a man of honour and integrity. I hope he finds a more respectful employer and a less pressured environment to work in.
From a general point of view this undermining of a Captains authority is worrying. Many skippers on this forum must have been in situations where they suspected the airline would call them to account. The thought comes to mind that the airline can sack you but the CAA can suspend your licence without which you cannot work. As has been shown neatly here sticking to the rules pays off.