Uber issues warning as TfL plans curbs for private hire firms

Fare rise warning: Uber dismissed the proposed rules as 'pointless'
Quique Garcia/AFP/Getty Images

Uber has warned that its fares will have to rise if “pointless” new rules for private hire firms are implemented.

Transport for London is tomorrow expected to unveil a raft of proposals designed to give passengers more protection and create a more even playing field with black cabs.

The rules will require drivers to pass a basic English language test, and a “Knowledge-lite” geography test, before they can drive in the capital. Further potential regulations include:

  • A compulsory five-minute delay be-fore a passenger can be picked up by a private hire vehicle after booking;

  • Making it illegal to show cars available for immediate hire, either visibly or virtually, via an app;

  • Drivers must use facial or fingerprint recognition to log into an app;

  • Drivers should be allowed to work for only one operator at a time;

  • Passengers must state a fixed destination at the time of booking.

In its response to the consultation on the plans, Uber will say: “These pointless new rules will do nothing to im-prove the service Uber and other apps provide. They’re designed to address the concerns of black cab drivers, who are feeling squeezed due to competition. But the answer is to reduce onerous regulations, not increase them.”

The current regulatory regime for minicabs dates back to 1998, long before the era of smartphones and apps.

The consultation will last until the end of the year with the new rules coming into force in 2016.

Steve McNamara, general secretary of the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association, welcomed the new rules.

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