Uber Lost License to Operate in London
The Transport for London (TfL) has today informed Uber London Limited that it will not be issued with a private hire operator license after expiry of its current license on 30 September.
TfL has concluded that Uber London Limited is not fit and proper to hold a private hire operator license.
TfL says that Uber's approach and conduct "demonstrate a lack of corporate responsibility in relation to a number of issues which have potential public safety and security implications."
TfL names Ubder's approach to reporting serious criminal offences and to how medical certificates are obtained. London's transport authority also criticizes Uber's approach to how Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks are obtained, and how the U.S. company explained the use of Greyball in London - software that could be used to block regulatory bodies from gaining full access to the app and prevent officials from undertaking regulatory or law enforcement duties.
The Private Hire Vehicles (London) Act 1998 includes provision to appeal a licensing decision within 21 days of it being communicated to the applicant. Uber London Limited can continue to operate until any appeal processes have been exhausted.
Uber London Limited was licensed as a Private Hire (PH) Operator in 2012. On 26 May TfL granted a 4-month PH Operator License whilst it concluded its consideration of a five year licence. This licence expires on 30 September.
In London, Uber has faced criticism from unions, lawmakers and traditional black cab drivers over working conditions.
Globally, Uber has endured a tumultuous few months after a string of scandals involving allegations of sexism and bullying at the company, leading to investor pressure which forced out former CEO and co-founder Travis Kalanick.
The app has been forced to quit several countries including Denmark and Hungary and faced regulatory battles in multiple U.S. states and countries around the world.