Uber To Lose License To Operate In London After Security And Safety Breaches

In a huge setback to the transport and technology company, Uber hasn’t had its licensed renewed by TfL (Transport for London) to operate in London.

Uber’s operating license was granted an extra two month probationary extension by TfL in September but is set to end on Tuesday. It’s been decided that TfL won’t renew the contract due to breaches regarding Uber’s passenger safety, which is apparently at risk according to TfL.

According to the City A.M newspaper, a ‘senior Uber employee’ said that the company is ‘confident’ of getting an extension on its operating license. A source close to TfL however is disputing this with claims that the renew may not take place.

Uber is more than likely going to appeal this decision, in which case they will continue to operate in London during the appeal’s duration. TfL still doesn’t have confidence in the company, though, after releasing the following statement:

“Despite addressing some of these issues, TfL does not have the confidence that similar issues will not reoccur in the future, which has led it to conclude that the company is not fit and proper at this time”.

Outlets are suggesting that there will be a further extension, with tech outlet Wired reporting that TfL is going to force Uber to collect biometric data on its drivers to improve security and safety standards.