London’s transport authority has said it will not issue a new private hire license to US-based ride-hailing giant Uber, the BBC reports. Transport for London made the decision that Uber was not fit to hold the license on the grounds of “public safety and security implications.”
“Transport for London and the mayor have caved in to a small number of people who want to restrict consumer choice,” Uber said in a statement, responding to the decision.
“I fully support TfL’s decision,” said London Mayor Sadiq Kahn. “It would be wrong if TfL continued to licence Uber if there is any way that this could pose a threat to Londoners’ safety and security.”
General Secretary of the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association Steve McNamara hailed the decision, decrying that “this immoral company has no place on London’s streets.”