Received an email today...

[Moscow Mule]

Bearing in mind that the head of HBOS Treasury IT (he's moved on now) when I was there described contractors as

"Money-grabbing mercenary scum"

and I think you should be glad it's only 10%.

[youwhut]

Okay, well don't get me started about the food and drinks machine... 55p for a Double Decker - come on!!

[Advocate]

Bearing in mind that the head of HBOS Treasury IT (he's moved on now) when I was there described contractors as

"Money-grabbing mercenary scum"

and I think you should be glad it's only 10%.

I think the money-grabbing comment shows some intelligence on our part...

[EvilWeevil]

"Money-grabbing mercenary scum"

From a bank?!! High praise indeed

[lambrini_socialist]

"Money-grabbing mercenary scum"

cool, like Boba Fett?

[Moscow Mule]

cool, like Boba Fett?

Yes, but with less guns and rocket packs.

[Lord]

I've decided to do 20% less effort for the new rate

[BolshieBastard]

This happened to me back in 2001 at Barclays. Just signed a new extention 4 weeks previous and was even told by the agent that some rates with the client were being cut but this 'only affected contractors on really high rates' when they introduced a 20% cut across the board, take it or leave it.

I told them to stuff their rate cut where the sun dont shine.

Be warned though, the market might not be in a good position and you may not find another contract straight away.

[scooterscot]

This happened to me back in 2001 at Barclays. Just signed a new extention 4 weeks previous and was even told by the agent that some rates with the client were being cut but this 'only affected contractors on really high rates' when they introduced a 20% cut across the board, take it or leave it.

I told them to stuff their rate cut where the sun dont shine.

Be warned though, the market might not be in a good position and you may not find another contract straight away.

Nonetheless accepting a lower rate is really saying the client is controlling how much you are to be paid. Are you a permie? Would you say to the plumber you just employed to install the new heating system 'sorry things are a bit tight at the moment I'll be paying you XXX less'

If you've got reserve in the war chest I'd walk.... Their problems belong to them not you.

[Lord]

I'll be staying for the festival in Edinburgh, then I am off