Traffic Commissioners (TCs) are cracking down on operators using self-employed drivers.
Where they hear evidence at a Public Inquiry (PI) that an operator is using self-employed drivers who do not work for anyone else, they are requiring undertakings from the operator that the drivers will become employees and subject to PAYE.
This was revealed by TC Tim Blackmore when he required an undertaking from Sowerby Bridge-based Edward and David Pilling at a Leeds PI.
Mr Pilling had said their part-time drivers were self employed, although they only worked for his firm.
The TC said this is not permissible. He said that HMRC had written to TCs asking them to take action in such circumstances.
He provided the firm with a copy of the letter concerned, after the partners gave the required undertaking.
