London strips off Uber’s license to run cab services in the city

London has stripped off Uber’s cab hailing license, and directed the firm to stop the services starting 1st September’17. Transport for London, the regulatory authority of the city, commented that “Uber’s approach and conduct demonstrate a lack of corporate responsibility in relation to several issues which have potential public safety and security implications. Uber has 21 days to appeal and can continue to operate until the appeal process has finished”. Uber has been attacked by London’s black cab drivers who say it has undercut safety rules and threatened their livelihoods. The U.S. firm has also faced criticism from unions and lawmakers and been embroiled in legal battles over workers’ rights.

Tom Elvidge, Uber’s General Manager in London, defended the firm and said that “Transport for London and the Mayor have caved in to a small number of people who want to restrict consumer choice. We intend to immediately challenge this in the courts”. However, Uber is not the only online-taxi hailing firm on the tenterhooks. One of Uber’s British competitors in London, Addison Lee, is also awaiting a decision from TFL about a longer-term license.