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GMB union slams Stansted Airport taxi operator StreetCars for raising commission charge to 45.5%




A union has accused Stansted Airport’s StreetCars of driving its cabbies to despair with an increased commission charge.

The GMB says the official taxi service operator at the Uttlesford hub has raised its cut from 40% to 45.5%, effectively reducing workers’ wages.

The union alleges the company continues to take on extra private hire drivers because of the “lucrative” commission and car rental charges – but more personnel reduces the number of jobs available and therefore many work “excessive” hours, jeopardising their own safety and that of passengers.

Stansted Airport terminal
Stansted Airport terminal

One GMB member and driver said: "It’s tough for us – 45.5% commission for every job makes it hard to earn a living.

“We have no alternative but to work more than 10 hours, but that’s if the jobs are there. When the airport is quieter it's quite possible that drivers cannot earn the equivalent of the National Minimum Wage [£10.41 an hour].

“Car insurance, maintenance costs, fuel and, for some drivers, car rental must all be paid regardless of how little we’ve earnt.”

Steve Garelick, GMB London region organiser, said: "Like many workers on low pay struggling to cope with living costs, StreetCars drivers are being crushed by these ‘greedy’ charges. 45.5% is an extortionate commission rate in comparison to other operators, which take considerably lower commission.

“Some drivers are working excessive hours to make a living, meaning their health and safety and that of passengers is at risk. This is a concern for passengers and GMB.

“On the face of it, StreetCars can impose these high rates without any backlash from MAG [Manchester Airports Group, which operates Stansted Airport] or any other body. Our members have had enough and will take action.”

The Indie has invited StreetCars to respond.

A spokesman for MAG said: “While this is a matter for StreetCars and its drivers, we do expect that all partner organisations working on the airport site maintain high and appropriate standards of business conduct.”



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