Backchat was surprised to learn that the AA had filled its quota of 1,500 call centre voluntary redundancies within weeks of sending out letters outlining the package.

According to a spokesman at the broker, the overwhelming scramble to jump ship reflected the generous nature of the deal offered to staff willing to leave.

So union criticisms of monitored toilet breaks, unfair sackings, paltry pay and a tough management style had nothing to do with it then?

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