Transport for London (TfL) announced this morning that it will not be issuing Uber with a private hire operator licence, revoking its right to operate in the city.
After September 30, Uber's London licence will be expired - but TfL has stated that Uber 'can continue to operate until any appeal processes have been exhausted', potentially meaning that customers will still be able to use the app after this date, as Uber is expected to appeal.
TfL announced its decision on Twitter:
The statement reads that TfL's regulation of taxi and private hire trades are 'designed to ensure passenger safety', and it has concluded that 'Uber London Limited is not fit and proper to hold a private hire operator licence.'
The retraction of Uber's licence comes admist a barrage of controversy concerning the app-based taxi company, including its negligence to report allegations of serious sexual offences committed by some of its drivers and its use of 'Greyball' in London, a software which blocks regulatory bodies from gaining full access to the app. In addition to the claims against its drivers, the company has also previously been accused of denying its drivers proper workers' rights.
TfL referred to these claims in its statement, deciding that Uber's 'approach and conduct demonstrate a lack of corporate responsibility'. The company has before been called 'exploitative' by the general secretary of the Licenced Taxi Driver's Association, Steve McNamara.
There had been growing pressure since the start of the year to review Uber's licence from black cab groups, former Uber drivers and politicians, and in May, London Uber was granted a temporary four-month licence pending further review, which will end on September 30.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has since issued his response to TfL's ruling on his Twitter account:
Khan states that London companies 'must play by the rules and adhere to the high standards we expect - particularly when it comes to the safety of customers.' He adds that TfL has his full support in their decision, as 'it would be wrong if TfL continued to licence Uber if there is any way that this could pose a threat to Londoners' safety and security.'
It is expected that Uber will appeal the decision, as the Evening Standard previously reported that a court battle over the licence was 'inevitable' with Uber having 'lawyers on standby to seek a judicial review if the decision goes against them.'
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This article originally appeared on The Debrief.