Readers’ poll

In light of the bad press Uber has suffered recently, we asked what was most important when choosing an online service. PC Pro and Alphr.com readers said:

Of those who said “something else”, most were complaints about Uber and recommendations to stick to regular black cabs, but some cited safety and reliability. As many pointed out, though, there are “villains” in every firm, and Uber is trying to make amends.

Richard noted that business models such as Uber’s, “ask interesting questions about lawmakers [as they are] finding ways to push the boundaries – but they have a greater responsibility to behave ethically.”

However, John McLean’s view was not uncommon: “I try to avoid it, but until there is another app which does the same thing as conveniently and cheaply, I am not going to go out of my way every time to inconvenience myself.”

Convenience is a lovely thing, but when companies behave badly, voting with your wallet is the best way to send a message Former Uber customer

I don’t use Uber unless I’m desperate. Its lack of ethics is not acceptable Anonymous

I’ve never liked the idea of a giant US corporation moving in on local businesses Brian Preece

It’s like with Google: all I’d need is a decent alternative. Look at the reviews for traditional taxi companies in cities besides London and you’ll understand. Peter Tennant