Uber ban could impact Kent

Uber drivers in Kent are under threat after Transport for London said it would revoke the company’s licence to operate cabs by the end of the month.

The company, which employs about 40,000 drivers in the capital, was told it was “not fit and proper” to hold a licence because of a failure to address a number of issues.

People who drive for the company in Kent have been dragged into the furore because most of them hold licences issued by Transport for London and not by Kent’s district councils, who issue licences for other cab firms.

Transport for London said public safety was at risk because of Uber’s approach to reporting serious criminal offences, failing to check drivers’ criminal records and using software which stops regulatory bodies accessing the app.

The authority said Uber London Limited would not have its licence renewed when it expires on September 30.

Well-established case law states someone can run a cab anywhere in the UK so long as they are a licensed private hire driver, driving a licensed vehicle under a licensed operator.

Uber drivers are able to operate legally in the county using the licence issued by Transport for London, which is now set to be revoked.

Tom Elvidge, general manager of Uber in London, said: “If this decision stands, it will put more than 40,000 licensed drivers out of work.

He said the company would appeal the decision in the courts.

The battle between regular taxis and Uber has taken a new turn with the Transport for London decision to revoke the company’s licence