Four self-employed drivers are taking legal action against Royal Mail’s Parcelforce Worldwide in a bid to secure employment rights including the minimum wage, paternity leave and holiday pay.
The action has been lodged with the Employment Tribunal by the GMB union. The claim alleges the “failure by Royal Mail to pay the Parcelforce drivers the national minimum wage and holiday pay.”
Such rights would be afforded to regular employees. But the gig economy set-up means that drivers aren’t employees whilst they also have to meet stringent targets in regards to delivery times and rates and often only get paid on a fee per parcel basis.
As has been recognised in previous cases, the targets and low fees per delivery can mean that drivers don’t make the minimum wage whilst also shouldering the costs of their vehicles and other expenses.
Royal Mail (according to Reuters) said of the action: “We are aware that a case has been filed. We do not comment on ongoing legal cases.”
Other couriers and carriers have been subject to such legal action in recent months and years as the so-called gig economy has become increasingly popular. The attractions for employers are obvious: they don’t have to pay into pension funds or cough up for other expenses. In the past, the courts have found in favour of the workers.
Whether it’s the likes of Uber or Deliveroo, lots of companies, including Amazon too, are relying on freelance drivers who are considered as self-employed. It allows them to attract a workforce as and when they need it.
It’s hardly surprising perhaps, therefore, that so many deliveries go awry, when the loyalty to employers is so weak. But that also reflects the desires of customers who want cheap and flexible delivery.
We will keep you posted on the outcome of this particular case.
