Judicial review into TfL's decision to allow Uber to continue operating during appeal denied

Taxi drivers in London, led by the United Trade Action Group (UTAG), have been dealt a blow after a judge decided not to grant a judicial review into Transport for London's (TfL) decision to allow Uber to continue operating in the capital despite denying them an operating licence.

UTAG questioned why TfL did not immediately revoke and deny the ride-sharing firm the ability to continue operating during the company's appeal against their licence refusal, despite concerns of public safety.

In a statement seen by TaxiPoint, Angela Clarkson and Trevor Merralls, Directors of the United Trade Action Group, have said: "We have today watched the Oral Hearing at the High Court via video link. We can confirm Justice Robin Knowles decision was to not grant permission for a Judicial Review.

"We have done all we can to ensure the safety of the travelling public which is TFL's primary duty to protect passengers.

"Our view is it beggars belief that a serial offender can have 14,000 incidents of insurance fraud and still be allowed to continue to operate under appeal for a further 8 months.

"UTAG's view is that protecting the travelling public should have been dealt with expressly by TFL and not put back into the hands of the Magistrates Court, where Uber have already appeared, after being found to be a not fit and proper Operator in 2017.

"TFL's decision has undermined the whole licensing regime, and one has to ask themselves what does a Private Hire Operator need to do to be suspended or revoked?

"In closing, we should like to thank all of you for your invaluable ongoing support and we hope you and your family are keeping safe during these challenging times."

TaxiPoint has approached the United Trade Action Group for further comment on the decision.