Being late back from lunch or in the morning is the kiss of death in companies where punctuality is related to productivity.

I worked places where being late even one minute will get a pink slip if done three times.

Nothing to do with any degrees.

But in answer to your question, no I would not think it would be permissible to let someone go simply because a policy is initiated after they are hired.

Tom W

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.