28th February 2010, 01:57 PM
This is a magnificent judgement and finally nails what many of us have been claiming for years - that so called 'self-employment contracts' are seldom worth the paper they are written on.
I would urge any archaeologist (or group of archaeologists) who feel that they too are being constricted by 'sham' self-employment conditions to seek the same remedy as the Unite members. Of course 'class actions' at industrial tribunals are much easier if you go with the support of a trade union than if you take it up as individuals. Another good reason for archaeologists to organise and fight for employment rights. And it often takes a fight to gain your rights as the Unite members proved.
I would urge any archaeologist (or group of archaeologists) who feel that they too are being constricted by 'sham' self-employment conditions to seek the same remedy as the Unite members. Of course 'class actions' at industrial tribunals are much easier if you go with the support of a trade union than if you take it up as individuals. Another good reason for archaeologists to organise and fight for employment rights. And it often takes a fight to gain your rights as the Unite members proved.
With peace and consolation hath dismist, And calm of mind all passion spent...