Uber takes Transport for London to court over English language test requirement

Taxi-hailing app Uber has launched a legal action to stop Transport for London (TfL) compelling its drivers to take a written English test, as reported in myBarrister.

Uber has submitted an application for a judicial review in the High Court in London to block TfL’s plans. TfL has responded that it will defend its proposals in court.

“This legal action is very much a last resort,” Tom Elvidge, Uber’s general manager for London, was reported as saying. “We’re particularly disappointed that, after a lengthy consultation process with Transport for London, the goalposts have moved at the last minute and new rules are now being introduced that will be bad for both drivers and tech companies like Uber.”

A TfL spokesman said: “These [measures] have been introduced to enhance public safety when using private hire services and we are determined to create a vibrant taxi and private hire market with space for all providers to flourish.”

Uber has faced hostility from London’s black-cab drivers and taxi firms such as Addison Lee, which claim the app allows unregulated drivers free rein on the city’s streets.

Taxi Licensing Barrister - myBarrister 

 

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