Uber challenge new London taxi rules

Uber react to new rules put forward by Transport for London (TFL) by launching an application for a judicial review.

The new rules in London would require thousands of drivers to take an English language.

Uber have stated that the legal action was a ‘last resort’. The General manager of Uber London, Tom Elvidge stated

“We’re particularly disappointed that, after a lengthy consultation process with Transport for London, the goalposts have moved at the last minute and new rules are now being introduced that will be bad for both drivers and tech companies like Uber.”

Uber admits to supporting tests such as an English speaking/listening test however they have argued that it would be unnecessary for them to provide a certificate to prove they have an intermediate level of writing and reading.

Uber has over 30,000 London drivers that would also be affected by the new rulings.

Another rule that is causing further concern is that private hire companies will be required to run a London based operating centre which passengers are able to make contact with during a journey.

TFL issued the following statement in return to Uber, “We responded to Uber’s letter and will be robustly defending the legal proceedings brought by them in relation to the changes to private hire regulations,”.