Jim'll fix rates - Really?

More and more recently I hear from the agencies that the client is only offering fixed rates and here is no room for negotiation.
The likes of Saipem and Reef spring to mind.

In the past this has never been the case. Rates were negotiated, based on experience and responsibility level to name but a few.


I can only assume it is either:

a) Cobblers
b) The agencies trying it on
c) The agencies/clients honing in on inexperienced 'cheap' labour
d) Cutting down on "Hurt feelings Forms'' being filed from teams offshore

My guess it's A, but I could be wrong.

I would be interested to hear the opinions of other forum members.