It looks as though Uber's days in London may be numbered, as the city's transportation board announced on Friday that they would not renew the company's license to operate in the city when it expires on September 30. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said that he supports Transport for London's decision, citing safety concerns.
In a statement, Khan said that he did not believe that Uber was following the same standards as other London cabs, and that this puts people at risk.
"All companies in London must play by the rules and adhere to the high standards we expect -- particularly when it comes to the safety of customers," he said in a statement. "Providing an innovative service must not be at the expense of customer safety and security."
Uber issued a statement that they intend on appealing this decision. In the meantime, they can still operate in London during the appeals. There are about 40,000 Uber drivers in London, and Ubers are much cheaper than alternative cab services.
"Transport for London and the mayor have caved in to a small number of people who want to restrict consumer choice," Uber said. "If this decision stands, it will put more than 40,000 licensed drivers out of work and deprive Londoners of a convenient and affordable form of transport."
This is a crystal clear example of the taxi cartel currently in place in London. Uber is an innovative company that has filled a void that people clearly needed and appreciate. London's "old school" cabs have attempted to roll out a similar service, but it doesn't work as well as Uber. It doesn't make sense to punish a company for being better than its alternatives.
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