Transport for London will not issue Uber London Limited a private operator license once its current license ends on 30 September.

Explaining the decision, TfL said private hire operators need to meet rigorous regulations to demonstrate they ensure passenger safety.

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It said it had concluded that Uber’s approach and conduct demonstrated a lack of corporate responsibility in relation to a number of issues which have potential public safety and security implications.

Specifically, it mentioned:

  • Its approach to reporting serious criminal offences
  • Its approach to how medical certificates are obtained
  • Its approach to how Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks are obtained
  • Its approach to explaining the use of Greyball in London, software that could block regulatory bodies from gaining full access to the app and prevent officials from undertaking regulatory or law enforcement duties.

Under the Private hire Vehicles (London) Act 1998, Uber will not be able to offer its services without the license. The same act also includes a provision to appeal a licensing decision within 21 days of it being communicated to the applicant.

Although Uber’s license will run out at the end of September, Uber will be able to operate in London until any appeal processes have been exhausted.

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Drivers union GMB, which has a history of criticising Uber, and last year won a case against it over the status of Uber drivers – a decision Uber is appealing, was quick to comment on the decision.

Maria Ludkin, GMB legal director, said: “As a result of sustained pressure from drivers and the public, Uber has suffered yet another defeat – losing its license to operate in London.

“It’s about time the company faced up to the huge consequences of GMB’s landmark employment tribunal victory – and changed its ways.

“No company can be behave like it’s above the law, and that includes Uber. No doubt other major cities will be looking at this decision and considering Uber’s future on their own streets.”