TfL’s guidance is now incorrect and most operators are now acting illegally
GMB, the drivers’ union, says today’s Supreme Court ruling confirms London private hire drivers are legally classed as workers and must be treated as such.
The court today ruled it is unlawful for a Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) Operator to act as an ‘agent’ between the driver and passenger, meaning that all operators must contract directly with both drivers and riders.
Mick Rix, GMB National Officer, said:
“GMB actions in the courts have won valuable worker rights for drivers.
“Today’s ruling provides clarity and backs up what GMB we have been saying for years - private hire drivers are workers and must be treated as such under law.
"It means TfL’s guidance is now incorrect and it means most operators are acting illegally and must get their house in order.
“GMB urges private hire operators such as Bolt and Addison Lee – who still refuse to give drivers the rights to which they are legally entitled – to change their business models in light of today’s judgement.”
