IT Contracting Rates & Agents

[Olivera]

After viewing the IT contracting thread from 9th October I decided to apply for several contracting roles.

Today I received a response from one of the agents, stating my skill set matches the requirements for the job. It is a Java programming position, so from what I have read the average hourly rate should be ~£40. However, I am inexperienced when it comes to contracting, so I thought the standard rate minus 10% or 20% would be fair (please correct me on this if I'm wrong).

I then explain my work history and qualifications in more detail to the agent. The agent then states that this role is a junior position so pays £15-£20 per hour .

Now, is this position really a junior role paying that amount or is it (which I suspect) bullshit spouted by the agent to shaft me so he makes more money?

How should I negotiate on this rate? What is a realistic rate for a Java programmer that has no contracting experience?

[Olivera]

Thanks for all of the replies.

I have since spoken to the agent again and asked how much commission they would be paid for this contract, but the agent stated that they do not normally release this information (is this true?) When I pressed the agent a little more he put me on hold before finally stating that the 'normal' rate is 15% to 30%.

Am I entitled to know exactly how much commission the agent makes on the contract? Is this fair behaviour or is the agent being evasive to maximise his side of the bargain?