‘Threat to safety’: Uber loses licence to operate in London

Transport for London (TfL) has said it will not issue a new operating licence to Uber.

Citing public safety and security concerns, TfL said the luxury taxi service is “not fit and proper” to operate in London.

Uber’s “approach to reporting criminal offences” was said to be shaky, according to a statement released by TfL on Friday.

“TfL considers 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,” the statement read.

Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, said the decision not to renew Uber’s licence was to guarantee the safety of Londoners.

“I fully support TfL’s decision – it would be wrong if TfL continued to license Uber if there is any way that this could pose a threat to Londoners’ safety and security,” he said.

“All companies in London must play by the rules and adhere to the high standards we expect – particularly when it comes to the safety of customers.

“Providing an innovative service must not be at the expense of customer safety and security.”

The company has an estimated 40,000 drivers working in London and has had to compete with black cab drivers since it started operating in the city.

Uber’s current licence expires on September 30 and it has 21 days to appeal the decision to withhold renewal of its licence.