Drivers' pay leaves egg on caterer's face

The GMB general union is negotiating with catering supplies company 3663 over the accidental overpayment of some of its lorry drivers.

Since February, drivers at the company's Banbury depot have been paid for 51 hours a week, although some have worked considerably shorter shifts.

Owing to the duration of the overpayments and the company's admission that the error was its own, 3663 is not attempting to reclaim the money, but it is now consulting the GMB about a phased move to the agreed rate. While the discussions proceed, the drivers will continue to be paid as if they were on a 51-hour week.

"The company is being quite generous about this and not heavy-handed at all," said GMB national officer Jude Brimble, "but it is a bit delicate. The difficulty is that the drivers have got used to receiving the money and they now think it's part of their last deal."