On October 28, the Central London Employment Tribunal held that Uber drivers are not self-employed.
As a result, the drivers are entitled to certain
“worker” benefits, including paid holidays and a
minimum wage. Under the law in England and Wales,
“workers” occupy a middle ground between employees and
the self-employed, with employees entitled to additional benefits
such as severance in a reduction-in-force also known as redundancy
pay (Scotland’s system differs). Workers are entitled to
fewer benefits than employees, but have certain minimum
protections, unlike the self-employed.
In disputing the drivers’ claims, Uber insisted it is a
technology company providing a service (a mobile telephone
application) that simply provides a way for self-employed drivers
to connect with potential paying customers. In support of its
argument, Uber claimed the self-employed drivers are able to work
where, when, and how often they choose. The Tribunal rather forcefully rejected this
