08 Oct 2018 | 11:27 PM UTC
UK: Uber strike in London, Birmingham, Nottingham on Oct. 9
Union calls on Uber drivers to stage 24-hour strike in London, Birmingham, and Nottingham beginning at 13:00 (local time) October 9; transportation disruptions to be expected
Event
The Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) has called on Uber drivers in London, Birmingham, and Nottingham to stage a 24-hour strike beginning at 13:00 (local time) on Tuesday, October 9, to demand higher pay and improved workers' rights. Organizers are also reportedly planning to stage protests outside Uber offices in the three cities. The IWGB has called on the public to support the strike by refraining from using the app for the 24-hour period. Although it is unclear how widely observed the strike will be, transportation disruptions, including increased demand and congestion on alternative means of transportation, are to be anticipated.
Context
Ride-sharing app company Uber counts approximately 60,000 drivers across Britain. Uber drivers are currently classified as self-employed, which means that they are not entitled to many workplace rights, including a minimum wage and paid holidays.
Meanwhile, Uber is continuing to appeal a previous UK court ruling that found against the company continuing to classify its drivers as independent contractors. A hearing on the matter is set for October 30-31.
Advice
Potentially affected individuals are advised to avoid all demonstrations and to anticipate potential transportation disruptions in London, Birmingham, and Nottingham on October 9-10.
