Regardless of whether or not she messed up, Ed Balls did the wrong thing when he intervened and ordered her dismissal - without a fair hearing.
Employment law applies to all employers and employees and it is irresponsible and foolish to try and circumvent due and proper procedure.
If disciplinary procedure had followed its proper course, Sharon Shoesmith would likely have walked away with her tail between her legs, and not with the handsome payout that she will more than likely be awarded.