My boss has made several passes at me at a social event. He said if I complained, it would end of my chances of promotion. What can I do?

Sexual harassment is often attempted to be excused at social functions, as they are seen as “a bit of fun” rather than work time. The line between work and a “fun event” can be a fine one. If a function is held at the employer's expense, and is clearly a works party, it is likely that this constitutes sexual harassment at work. In any case, behaviour of this sort is unacceptable, particularly if you make it clear that you do not like it.

Another excuse often given is: "everyone else was doing it". This is no defence, and the fact that other people also behaved unacceptably does not mean that it is okay in each case; some people may not object, but that does not make it unreasonable for others to do so.

Threatening you in this way after behaving in a way that you found objectionable would be a breach of sex discrimination laws. if you are concerned that your boss may act on the threat and/or you now feel uncomfortable working with him because of his behaviour, speak to your union rep, if you have one. If you are not a union member, you can get advice from the Equal Opportunities Commission, ACAS or Citizens Advice.