Labour is being urged to support delivery workers who were fired for raising concerns about DPD’s proposed pay cuts, according to a former Cabinet minister. Louise Haigh has strongly criticized the delivery company for its treatment of the workers who were informed of reduced delivery rates. The drivers estimated the potential financial impact to be around £6,000 per year per driver, rising to £8,000 for those handling additional Christmas deliveries. As a former Transport Secretary, Haigh has called on the Government to oppose worker exploitation.
In an interview with The Mirror, Haigh stated, “DPD’s management is engaging in unacceptable behavior by punishing vulnerable workers for defending their promised terms. Such actions should not be condoned legally. A Labour government must ensure unwavering support for the powerless against exploitative practices.”
Following a three-day delivery boycott in protest, several drivers were dismissed by DPD for speaking out against their treatment. Dean Hawkins, a spokesperson for the affected drivers, emphasized the need for increased government support for workers in similar situations, highlighting 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 affected by DPD’s actions. He emphasized the need to protect workers who challenge detrimental changes to their terms and conditions, labeling the penalties imposed by employers as unacceptable and should be prohibited.
A Department for Business and Trade spokesperson emphasized the importance of companies treating their employees with respect and fulfilling their responsibilities as responsible employers, without commenting on individual cases. DPD, in a statement, defended their decision to terminate supplier contracts, citing potential damage to their interests or reputation as grounds for such actions.