Uber drivers classed as workers and not self-employed, Supreme Court rules

The ruling will not only mean that Uber faces a steep compensation fee but also that many Uber drivers may be entitled to minimum wage.

It is thought that this most recent legal development from the Uber BV and others (Appellants) v Aslam and others (Respondents) case will have a significant impact on the gig economy.

Today, the unanimous UK Supreme Court decision backed an employment tribunal ruling made nearly five years ago and stated that any attempt from companies like Uber to draft side-step contracts would be unenforceable.

This comes after a long legal battle between Uber and its drivers, when the technology company was challenged in several countries, including the UK, over whether their drivers should be classed as workers or self-employed.

Mr Aslam, one of the main claimants against Uber's appeal, said that the company had forced him to leave his position as a driver when he was struggling to make ends meet.

And especially since the coronavirus pandemic has damaged many industries, drivers have felt financially trapped and strained by Uber's system that sees them earning around £30 a day.

While some Uber drivers welcome today's ruling and consider rejoining the app under the new employment circumstances, other drivers believe that this decision came six years too late.