Uber ban: Londoners call for boycott of black cabs after TfL decision

Backlash: Angry Uber users began tweeting with the hashtag #boycottblackcabs
PA
Sebastian Mann22 September 2017

A dramatic move to strip Uber of its licence today sparked calls for Londoners to boycott black cabs.

Social media users began using the hashtag #boycottblackcabs after Transport for London chiefs made the sensational decision not to renew the ride-hailing firm’s licence when it expires next Saturday.

Sadiq Khan said companies “must play by the rules” after TfL, which is headed up by the mayor, ruled Uber was “not fit and proper” to operate on London’s roads amid allegations of security and safety failings.

Black cab drivers have lobbied TfL hard in recent months for it to take this decision. Today Steve McNamara, general secretary of the Licensed Taxi Drivers' Association said: “The Mayor has made the right call not to relicense Uber."

Uber immediately said it would be challenging the decision in the courts, and claimed the move would “deprive Londoners of a convenient and affordable form of transport”.

On Twitter, many users seemed to agree and reacted angrily to the news they may have to pay more for car journeys around the capital.

Anthony Jones wrote: "No Uber Licence renewal for London? Sorry @TfL - I refuse to get your sh***y black cabs and pay 3x the price. #boycottblackcabs"

Edward Marno accused TfL of “pandering to the black cab lobby”, adding: “Shame on you all #boycottblackcabs."

However, the hugely controversial decision was welcomed by some.

Labour MP Wes Streeting, chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Taxis, backed the move by his Labour colleague Mr Khan.

He said: "This is a courageous decision by the Mayor and Transport for London, finally drawing a line in the sand to make it clear that no company, however big and powerful, will be allowed to flout our laws and regulations or jeopardise Londoners' safety without facing serious consequences."

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