Uber to lose license to work in London
LONDON — Uber will lose its license to operate in London because it may be endangering public safety and security, the local regulator said Friday, in a severe blow to a company already facing big questions over its corporate culture.
The company, which has been beset by a litany of scandals over its management style — from accusations of sexism to the illegal use of software to trick regulators — was told it was not “fit and proper” to keep operating in London, where it has 3.5 million passengers and 40,000 drivers.
“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 regulator said in a statement.
Transport for London cited instances in which Uber failed to report serious criminal offenses as well as its penchant to deceive regulators in its decision to not renew its license when it expires Sept. 30. Uber will appeal, during which time it can continue operating.
The decision startled many — even though the ride-hailing business has many critics. The city’s black cab drivers — who spend years learning the city streets to pass the famed Knowledge test — objected to the interlopers who undercut their business. Unions objected to the company’s treatment of its workforce.
In a city where the Labour Party is in the majority, many of these issues would have resonated with the opposition party’s voters. Labour Mayor Sadiq Khan was quick to endorse the decision of an agency he supervises.
For its part, Uber accused the city of caving in to special interests “who want to restrict consumer choice.” It issued a statement to its users, starting a petition to reverse the decision.