Uber drivers now classed as workers - but what does this mean?

Greater cost to the 'gig economy’ and consumers

"The employment tribunal's decision today certainly sheds clarity on the employment status of this new breed of ‘freelancer’ currently fuelling the growth of the UK gig economy. However, consequences of the judgment is likely to result in increased costs to the gig industry in order to comply with the new employment laws, and it's probable that these will be passed on to the consumer, such as through higher fees, delivery rates and prices for goods and services. The service industry like couriers, fast food delivery companies and portable cleaning operators are likely to be hit the hardest.  

“Workers, not to be confused with employees who have greater employment rights in law, are also entitled to minimum legal rights. These include for example, the right to claim unfair dismissal, to receive statutory sick pay maternity, paternity and parental rights; to be paid the national living or  minimum wage depending if they are aged 25 or more; to have working time rights such as not to be forced to work more than 48 hours per week, regular rest breaks and night working health and safety standards; to receive a statement of terms and conditions of employment.

“Further, Uber will need to have a qualifying auto-enrolment pension scheme in place and backdate any pension contributions.