The GMB Professional Drivers Branch descended into chaos at a recent meeting.
At this meeting large numbers of Uber Drivers new members arrived and stated Quite clearly that they wanted no part in trying to shut Uber down indeed they regarded them as no more than your normal Proprietor except in one difference with Uber no work equalled no fees unlike your normal Agency where you pay up front and hope to obtain some work!
Naturally the incumbent proprietor Branch sec Stevie G was alarmed at this attack on his activities with the LPHCA and other proprietors he stated." that's not how we do things here !!" The Uber Drivers said we want a debate on changing Branch policy SG said no "you cant change policy" at which point Elly Baker full time officer now responsible for the Branch made it quite clear that Branch policy was decided by BRANCH MEMBERS.
So the Uber drivers proceeded to move a resolution which changed the GMBPDB's policy on Uber their motion was overwhelmingly carried
it removed the demand to close Uber and instructed the Branch Officials to open negotiations with Uber regarding TERMs and CONDITIONS.Naturally SG was somewhat irritated and indeed had to be warned about his behaviour during the meeting!
Subsequently SG has allegedly made overtures to the GMB London Region and reportedly contacted the Gen Sec Paul Kenny stating that he was in total disagreement with the Branch's new policy and wished to construct a Branch for Small proprietors this GMB Branch would campaign and argue for pro proprietor policys contrary to his current Branch;s instructions. ALL OF THIS BEHIND HIS MEMBERS BACKS
This new Branch would if allowed there fore attend meetings and make representations contrary to Rule! how this gentleman imagines the GMB would tolerate such behaviour is beyond comprehension one Union with 2 delegations arguing against each other
One wonders what the new Uber members think of this gentlemans behaviour in attempting to crush their policys ??
My advice stick with the GMBPDB remove the chap the Branch secs position and recruit for your coming battle with UBER who are of course very vulnerable to well organised industrial action, also of course you will frighten the life out of the Cowboys in the other company's who regard Drivers as RENTS to be cheated and swindled at every opportunity .........................................I wish you luck
in solidarity TT
which the new members from Uber were prepared to do, and I congratulate them on their initiative 
