Sacked Web surfer appeals against dismissal

A secretary who was sacked for spending much time surfing the Web at work is appealing against her dismissal, claiming that she suffers from a medical condition: 'Internet addiction'.

In the first case of its kind to hit British law courts, the woman, who reportedly spent hours everyday downloading pornography and roaming chat rooms, is claiming the dismissal is unfair under the Disability and Discrimination Act 1995.

Nick Lockett, a solicitor at law firm, Sidley & Austin, said the woman's chances of success are slim. "Addiction to the Internet will not be covered in this act - it's not what it was designed for," he said.

Several similar cases were heard in American courts around two years ago, but were thrown out, according to Lockett.

However, recognition of Internet addiction as an official medical condition is growing in psychology circles.

The case will be heard by an employment tribunal later this week.