Rates cut
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As owner-drivers, we were recently given a rates sheet covering the coming 12 months. Now, however, the rates on offer are being reduced by up to £18 a load.
Do we have any legal redress for this change to our terms?
We were especially annoyed because we happen to know that our employer has received a 4% increase from one client we deal with, not a penny of which has been passed on to us.
Owner-driver name and address supplied
The answer to your question depends on whatyou have agreed with your work provider. If you have agreed that the rate stays fixed for 12 monthsthen that binds him. However, if no such agreement is in place then the rate is not fixed.
Of course, this issue is entirely dependant on how closely tied both you and your work provider are to each other.
Is there an obligation on him to give you work? What notice period do you have tor cancelling the contract? If, for example, he is bound by the rate for 12 months, butthere is nothing preventing him terminating the contract tomorrow, then that is how he 'gets out of it'.
When the work starts tomorrow you have a new contract and a new rate.
If you are both bound in bra fixed term, or at least a notice period, then he may be bound for that period.