Uber prices surge FOUR TIMES HIGHER than usual journey prices after England lose Euro 2020 Final

Users of the Uber ride-hailing service have complained about surging prices when compared to usual journey costs, as driver numbers during peak times slump.

Users of the app saw fares jump to more than FOUR TIMES the amount they normally pay last night after England lost in the final of the Euro’s 2020.

A lack of available drivers since lockdown easements began is seen as a major reason why prices have sky rocketed at times of demand.

One user wrote on social media last night: “Bro the uber to mine is usually £8-£10 Why is it £45”

Another said: “Hope no one needs an Uber to travel 3 miles.”

Another showed images of quotes displaying the cheapest Uber at £66.53. The message said: “Should be a £15 journey. Shame on you.”

Earlier in the year the Chairman of the LPHCA warned of a ‘catastrophic shortage of drivers’ which would risk the sustainability of the taxi and private hire industry.

Steve Wright, Chairman of the Licensed Private hIre Car Association (LPHCA), warned of the potential problems last summer when he contacted the Secretary of State for Transport, Grant Shapps.

Since then little industry specific funding has been made available, forcing drivers to look for other work during the pandemic. Licensed driver and vehicle numbers have dropped significantly meaning in some cases the pent-up demand cannot be met.

The issue is expected to be pushed further once the final restrictions are dropped.

Steve Wright said in the latest issue of Private Hire News: “Sadly, our prediction of the possibility of a catastrophic shortage of drivers is becoming a reality and the LPHCA will continue to make ministers aware of the difficulties.

“Last July we wrote to Rt. Hon. Grant Shapps MP Secretary of State for Transport to draw his attention to potential serious problems and the risks to the sustainability of the Taxi & Private Hire industry.”