[ad_1]
Uber will be able to continue operating in London after a court has decided that the ride-ball firm should be granted a new 15-month probation license after being informed of radical changes in its practices .
The future of the firm in one of its largest global markets was in jeopardy after Transport for London decided last September that it was not "fit and proper" for Hold a license as a private rental vehicle operator.
At the start of a two-day hearing, Uber admitted that London's initial decision not to renew its five-year license had been correct. TfL mentioned concerns about public safety and security, including the reporting of crimes and background checks on drivers.
But Uber's lawyers convinced the Westminster District Court that he had since cleaned up his act, while continuing to operate in the capital while awaiting his appeal.
Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot said that Uber should pay all the costs of the appeal. The TfL lawyer said that an amount of £ 425,000 had been agreed.
Uber's lawyers told the court that after extensive changes and the appointment of a new management in the UK to ensure full compliance with the regulations, it had completely exceeded all three. recent TfL inspections.
The changes include proactive reporting of serious incidents and ensuring that drivers operate only in areas where they are authorized.
TfL argued that Uber's actions should be viewed in the context of its past conduct, requiring a shorter license than previously granted.
Helen Chapman, Director of Licensing and Charging Regulations at TfL, told the court that Uber had resisted regulation during the first five years of operation and that it had not been there. had enough time to check if the company had actually changed.
She said: "We had five years of very difficult relationships, where Uber felt that it did not require regulation." She said it was "downright frustrating" that TfL was informed of the problems by them. rather than the media. Uber.
The lawyers of the black taxi drivers had pleaded against granting a license to Uber. Gérald Gouriet, QC, representing the Association of Licensed Taxi Drivers, warned that a "Uber in Sheep Dress" had appeared in court.
Uber claims to have about 3.6 million passengers who regularly use its service in London, with 45,000 drivers.
The San Francisco-based firm has been trying to draw a line under past controversy with the appointment of a new general manager, Dara Khosrowshahi, last August, who said the company needed to change and would work with the London authorities.
In addition to complying with the regulations, it offered better conditions for drivers, including limited insurance, and a 24-hour helpline for support.
But he continued to fight against the decisions of the labor courts granting rights to his so-called "partners", which led to accusations of money laundering rather than substantial changes.
Source link
