Member Article

Internal conflict brews for Uber as London’s drivers plan demonstration

GMB union has announced plans for a protest demonstration at Uber’s office in London on Thursday 12th November to coincide with the commission for new drivers increasing by a quarter from 20% to 25% as of that date.

The proposed increase will cut the incomes of up to 20,000 cab drivers by up to £50 per week, while it could yield up to £50m additional revenue per year to Uber.

On 29th Oct solicitors Leigh Day, on behalf of GMB members working for Uber, issued a claim at the London Central Employment Tribunal that the company does not provide drivers with basic workers’ rights.

Uber is in breach of a legal duty to provide drivers with basic rights on pay, holidays, health and safety and on raising complaints, says GMB.

James Farrar, GMB senior union representative for Uber drivers, said: “GMB drivers such as myself like working for Uber but increased numbers of drivers, commission increases and price cuts are driving us into poverty.”

The taxi app also faces pressure from Transport for London (TfL), which unveiled plans earlier this month to introduce a ‘five minute rule’ for Uber drivers in the city.

The proposals, which would require a five minute delay to any pick-ups in the city, could see Uber drivers lose £1,000 each a year.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ellen Forster .