Labour is being urged to support delivery workers who were fired for speaking out against DPD’s proposed pay cuts, according to a former Cabinet minister. Louise Haigh criticized the treatment of these workers by the delivery company, highlighting the impact of the rate reductions on self-employed drivers.
Allegedly, the drivers stand to lose around £6,000 annually, with some facing up to £8,000 in losses during the busy Christmas period. Haigh, a former Transport Secretary, has called on the Government to combat worker exploitation.
DPD faced backlash as many drivers refused to work for three days in protest, leading to the dismissal of some who voiced their concerns. Dean Hawkins, a spokesperson for the drivers, emphasized the need for more government support in such situations, especially considering the critical role delivery drivers played during the pandemic.
Labour peer Lord John Hendy has advocated for amendments to the Employment Rights Bill to safeguard drivers like those terminated by DPD. He highlighted the need to protect workers from repercussions for defending their terms and conditions.
The Department for Business and Trade emphasized the importance of companies treating their employees respectfully and fulfilling their responsibilities as ethical employers. DPD defended its actions by stating that contract terminations are reserved for situations where suppliers are deemed to harm the company’s interests or reputation and breach contractual agreements.