London transport officials urged to keep Uber running

BUSINESS groups have urged Transport for London (TfL) not to pull the plug on Uber as talks between the firm and authorities to avoid having its London licence revoked loom on Tuesday.

It comes after reports that an outright ban could be on the cards, with the ride-hailing app potentially losing its permit in the capital for the second time in just over two years. Uber, with around 45,000 drivers in London, lost its licence in 2017 over safety concerns, but was granted an extension.

The CBI said it “understands Uber has actively engaged with local and national authorities to demonstrate it is operating safely and responsibly. What’s crucial now is that authorities have confidence in these efforts and a sensible agreement is reached.”

London First, a business campaigning group, said: “This would be disappointing to millions of Londoners and visitors. TfL should be working with companies like Uber to lead the way in safe and responsible innovation.”

Uber will find out if it will win another five-year licence once its temporary one expires at midnight tomorrow. If not, it will be a big blow for the firm.

Sky News said yesterday TfL was “actively considering” a ban.

Uber has been liaising with officials to meet new safety requirements. It has altered its app, adding cycle lane alerts and a safety “toolkit” for users as well as offering insurance and advisory groups for drivers. But fresh concerns were raised by regulators about its ability to identify its drivers, according to Sky News. It has previously come under fire for how it conducted driver checks. Its UK drivers have to have a licence from a local authority, including an enhanced background check

TfL said: “TfL is considering Uber’s application and no decision has been made.” Uber declined to comment.