Uber has lost its licence to operate in London after city transport authority Transport for London (TfL) declared the ride-hailing giant as “not fit and proper” to operate a private hire company.
The ruling means Uber must cease operating in London on September 30.
TfL, which operates the London Underground and London buses and licences taxis in the city, said Uber’s approach and conduct demonstrated “a lack of corporate responsibility” which could have public safety and security implications.
The decision was backed by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who said: “I fully support TfL’s decision – it would be wrong if TfL continued to license Uber if there is any way that this could pose a threat to Londoners’ safety and security.”
Uber said it would challenge the decision in the courts.
In a statement, Uber said: “Transport for London and the mayor have caved in to a small number of people who want to restrict consumer choice.”
The company said the decision showed “London is closed to innovative companies”.
Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association general secretary Steve McNamara said: “The mayor has made the right call not to re-license Uber.
“We expect Uber will again embark on a spurious legal challenge against the mayor and TfL, and we will urge the court to uphold this decision.
“This company has no place on London’s streets.”
The general trade union representing taxi drivers, the GMB, also hailed the decision. It brought a court case against Uber which resulted in a Central London Employment Tribunal ruling in October 2016 that Uber drivers are entitled to workers’ rights including holiday pay, a guaranteed minimum wage and entitlement to breaks.
Uber’s licence to operate in London is due to expire on September 30.