hello Sidewinder, I am surprised to get an answer at all, but as you can imagine I am livid and in shock. Was told that I and the other driver working for the Manpower agency were not to be issued work because of an email that had been sent to the transport shift manager stating this was because of the AWR. Work Available: There are two other agencies that supply drivers, and I was advised to join one of them, which makes me think that maybe a deal has been struck with these, an "opt out clause". Yes work is available. There have been the odd day in less busy times when I was not required, but over the past year I have worked 5 and 6 day weeks often having to lessen my hours due to working time directives governing HGV drivers. The work will be covered by the companies own drivers and the shortfall by the other agency drivers.

At 11.30 this christmas eve, the last day of the 12 week period when workers qualify for their new rights, I was informed that I would not be working at The company I have been working for for a year ! Prior to today I had been asked what my availability all over the holidays was, and there was no indication that I was not required until this evening when I got back from my delivery run. I usually am given my start time for the next day but was told by a "friend" that as a heads up he was letting me know that the reason I had not been allocated work for Monday was that as of this eve 24th I was not to be given work because of the AWR that had come into force today. and so it starts, unscrupulous hirers, flouting the laws and stitching up agency workers. What now? My ageny does not return to the office until wednesday, and now have 2 days of no work or pay. Had I been told I was not required my agency would have been able to get me work for the Monday and tuesday. I am sure this is going to be a huge case that the unions will have to address.