London Withdraws Uber Licence Amid Safety Issue

• London Withdraws Uber Licence Amid Safety Issue

Transport for London (TfL) had said global hailing taxi company Uber will not be allowed to operate in London amid several safety issues.

The regulator said despite making adjustments to the taxi app, the app was not “fit and proper” as a licence holder.

Helen Chapman, the director of licensing at TfL, said: “While we recognise Uber has made improvements, it is unacceptable that Uber has allowed passengers to get into minicabs with drivers who are potentially unlicensed and uninsured.”

Sadiq Khan, London Mayor said: “I know this decision may be unpopular with Uber users, but their safety is the paramount concern. Regulations are there to keep Londoners safe.”

In 2017, Uber lost its licence but was granted two years extension that expired on Monday.

While uber management will appeal the decision, it is uncertain if TfL will shift ground.

However, if the appeal is unsuccessful Fiona Cincotta, a market analyst at City Index, said: “There would be competition that would fill that void quite quickly.”

A regular customer, Donna Steven said her experience with the hailing company in London has “always been positive”.

She said “the drivers are friendly, courteous and professional. I can’t afford to get a metered taxi” because she often closes late as a carer.

Another customer, however, said she wouldn’t be sad if the company go.

Kay said, “I complained a couple of months ago about a driver who made me feel so uncomfortable I abandoned the ride and walked home in the dark at 11 o’clock at night instead of staying in his cab.”

While Kay admits the company credited her £5, she said it refuses to apologise. “How is it OK to employ drivers that make women feel unsafe?” she added.