Courier Hermes faces taxman's gaze over minimum wage concerns

GOVERNANCE CONCERNS have been raised at courier firm Hermes, after allegations were presented to the business minister about it paying less than the minimum wage.

A report by MP Frank Field including complaints from 78 drivers about their treatment and remuneration has been passed onto business minister Margot James. She has called on the taxman to look into Hermes’ affairs.

The complaints included claims that staff had been sacked while attending urgent medical appointments, and that its practice of taking on drivers as self-employed saw many of them affectively receive less than the minimum wage.

Hermes said the report “does not reflect” the way it runs its business, reported the BBC. It said it was committed to its code of conduct, which states couriers should be treated with “dignity and respect”.

Sports Direct has faced shareholder revolts over its working practices and staff treatment. Standard Life Investments voted against the company pay report and against the re-appointment of its non-execs.

The sports clothing and equipment retailer has pledged to evaluate its board, governance and working practices.