Taxi Driver Online

GMB union slams Stansted Airport taxi operator StreetCars for raising commission charge to 45.5%

https://www.bishopsstortfordindependent ... e-9325097/

A union has accused Stansted Airport’s StreetCars of driving its cabbies to despair with an increased commission charge.

The GMB says the official taxi service operator at the Uttlesford hub has raised its cut from 40% to 45.5%, effectively reducing workers’ wages.

The union alleges the company continues to take on extra private hire drivers because of the “lucrative” commission and car rental charges – but more personnel reduces the number of jobs available and therefore many work “excessive” hours, jeopardising their own safety and that of passengers.

One GMB member and driver said: "It’s tough for us – 45.5% commission for every job makes it hard to earn a living.

“We have no alternative but to work more than 10 hours, but that’s if the jobs are there. When the airport is quieter it's quite possible that drivers cannot earn the equivalent of the National Minimum Wage [£10.41 an hour].

“Car insurance, maintenance costs, fuel and, for some drivers, car rental must all be paid regardless of how little we’ve earnt.”

Steve ********, GMB London region organiser, said: "Like many workers on low pay struggling to cope with living costs, StreetCars drivers are being crushed by these ‘greedy’ charges. 45.5% is an extortionate commission rate in comparison to other operators, which take considerably lower commission.

“Some drivers are working excessive hours to make a living, meaning their health and safety and that of passengers is at risk. This is a concern for passengers and GMB.

“On the face of it, StreetCars can impose these high rates without any backlash from MAG [Manchester Airports Group, which operates Stansted Airport] or any other body. Our members have had enough and will take action.”

The Indie has invited StreetCars to respond.

A spokesman for MAG said: “While this is a matter for StreetCars and its drivers, we do expect that all partner organisations working on the airport site maintain high and appropriate standards of business conduct.”

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IDFIMH

Why doesn't the union advise and support drivers gaining worker's rights?

That would deal with the minimum wage matter and any holiday and sickness pay issues.

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IDFIMH

precisely they are under a fairly restrictive contract because I remember some time ago the previous incarnation of the business got taken to court for unfair dismissal and lost. That was followed by them mysteriosly going bust and a new company appearing.

At the end of the day they provide the vehicles and all the work so same set up as addy lee

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lack of modern legislation is the iceberg sinking the titanic of the transport sector