IT all depends on what the industry as a whole wants.

That's the stand of Human Resources Minister Datuk Dr S. Subramaniam when asked to comment on the awarding of contracts for service to commercial drivers.

He says there are companies which treat drivers as employees, giving them all the benefits employees are entitled to and there are others which treat them as independent contractors.

"It depends on the driver which system he wants to go for. In a free market system, everything depends on what is mutually agreed upon."

Subramaniam says he knows many drivers who prefer to be classified as independent contractors as it means they can earn more money at the end of the day.

"It all depends on what the industry as a whole wants to do. If all the employees in a company decide that they want to be employees instead of independent contractors, then by all means, come and see us." he says.

At the same time, he adds, there is nothing to stop drivers who willingly go for the contract for service system.