Sheffield MP speaks out in support of Deliveroo couriers' strike

The delivery drivers and couriers are striking between 7pm and 9pm tonight (August 19), peak time for the service.

They are demanding Deliveroo guarantee a living wage after costs, and provide clarity over how pay is set; an end to unfair sackings without right of appeal; and real sick pay to genuinely support couriers through illness.

Ms Blake said: “One of the many things this last week has shown us is the need to resist algorithms determining what is fair and just. And as with our A-level and GCSE students, Deliveroo riders have long been subjected to an uncaring algorithm; and an employer that uses its algorithms as a cover for their unjust business practices.

"I fully support Deliveroo workers, and all precarious workers, organising for better conditions and the right to a guaranteed living wage. For too long Deliveroo, Uber, and other employers of the platform economy have exploited their workers.

"Now is the time for guaranteed, decent wages; fair conditions, an end to unfair sackings; and real sick pay for all.”

Couriers say that although they have supported society as key workers by delivering food and other goods throughout lockdown, companies have hit them with pay too low to cover the costs of running their vehicles.