Commons Commitment
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has promised to review laws governing franchising agreements following the tragic case of Adrian Howe, a former Vodafone store manager whose family alleges he took his own life under pressure from the telecoms group. Speaking during Prime Minister’s Questions, Starmer said he would “look closely” at the outcome of a high‑profile legal claim against Vodafone.
Background of the Case
A Guardian investigation in December revealed that Howe, who had worked for Vodafone for more than 20 years, agreed to become a franchisee in 2018. His family claims he drowned after becoming convinced that the deal would prove financially disastrous.
Other former franchisees, including Rachael Beddow‑Davison and Dan Attwal, have also spoken publicly about how Vodafone’s commission cuts in 2020 left their businesses with huge debts. Both said the financial strain contributed to suicide attempts.
Legal Action
Beddow‑Davison and Attwal are among 62 former Vodafone franchisees who filed a High Court claim in 2024, alleging the company “unjustly enriched” itself at their expense. MPs have compared the case to the Post Office Horizon IT scandal, citing systemic issues and imbalance of power between corporations and franchisees.
Parliamentary Intervention
During PMQs, Labour MP Johanna Baxter highlighted Howe’s case, noting that he was initially offered a thriving store but later forced to take on a struggling one. “Just days before he was due to open that store, Adrian stepped into a lake and didn’t ever return home,” she said. Baxter urged the prime minister to ensure franchising legislation is rebalanced to protect franchisees from undue pressure.
Next Steps
Starmer’s commitment signals potential reform of franchising laws, aiming to strengthen protections for small business owners and prevent future tragedies linked to corporate practices.