Dozens protests Basingstoke cab office after union rep stood down

The rep was discriminated against for carrying out trade union duties

More than 50 drivers at Basingstoke’s Alpha Cars protested outside the firm’s office on Monday.

The drivers, who are members of GMB Union are angry that their colleague whom they have elected to be their union rep has been stood down by the company.

Since the drivers are self-employed, the driver could not be sacked but has been told he will not be used by the company going forward.

David McMullen, GMB Regional Organiser said:

“These members have every right to elect a rep and ensure that they have the frameworks in place to organise and protect themselves at work.

“While not a dismissal per se, GMB is in no doubt that this constitutes discrimination for carrying out lawful trade union activity.

“Changes to the drivers’ terms are currently being proposed which will affect how much money they earn, which shows the need for a union at Alpha Cars.

“The owner pushing through these wage changes drives a Lamborghini, so he’s obviously not short of a bob or two himself.

“This demonstration will be the first of many if the owner doesn’t see sense and reinstate our rep and meet us formally to discuss contract terms.”