TfL refers Uber app row to High Court, but Licensed Taxi Drivers Association strike still planned
The Licensed Taxi Drivers Association (LTDA) has said that it has “no confidence in TfL and its legal team” after Transport for London referred the row over use of taxi apps such as Uber to the High Court.
Cabbies have complained that the Uber app - which calculates the journey distance and time taken, and then relays the information to remote computer servers to determine the fee – undermines their business.
The LTDA has suggested the app equates to being a taximeter, which private vehicles are not allowed to use.
TFL said that "given the level of concern among the trade", it would refer the matter to the High Court to make a binding ruling.
In a statement on the matter, Tfl said: “The rapid pace at which smart phone based technology has been developing in recent years has led to a need for clarity about what is required in order for apps to comply with the regulatory framework in London and to ensure there is a level playing field for all operators.”
Uber’s London manager, Jo Bertram, said: "We very much welcome TfL's announcement today bringing clarity and confirming that TfL and Uber fully share the vision that technology should be a key driver in changing the way people are moving around their city, improving the experience for both riders as well as drivers."
However, the LTDA is not happy with the response from TfL. General secretary Steve McNamara told the BBC: "This attitude demonstrates why we are being forced to demonstrate. TfL is simply not fit for purpose."
The association is planning a strike for 11 June.