A social worker was sacked after he was caught reading a book when he should have been working.
Calderdale Council employee Maxwell Kniveton admitted he was reading a novel whilst in court representing a vulnerable child.
Mr Kniveton was spotted reading a fiction book during a child protection hearing at Halifax County Court in February 2013.
He was representing the council in a hearing before a deputy district judge.
But during parts of the case he was seen reading a novel with an orange cover by lawyers and reported to the judge.
The judge reprimanded him in court saying his actions resulted in a “loss in confidence” in his ability to do his job properly.
The court said it wanted another social worker appointed to the case immediately.
Mr Kniveton admitted his actions to Calderdale Council but was still sacked in May 2013.
He told the council’s investigator: “I had this fiction book on my lap and was reading it.
“I know this was a really stupid thing to do, and I apologise and will do so to the family.”
Mr Kniveton appealed his dismissal but failed to overturn. He was also reported to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
At an HCPC hearing last week a panel decided against suspending him or banning him from the profession.
But Mr Kniveton, who has found alternative employment in the social care industry, is subject to close supervision by the regulator for a period of 12 months.
