Uber Launching Legal Action Over New Regulations in London

(Source: Internet)

After government officials in London imposed new laws on ride-hailing services, Uber has launched legal action against the city in hopes of making it easier for the company and its drivers to operate in England.

According to Reuters, the local London government has been working for the last year on ways to restrict ride-hailing services after protests from taxi drivers in the city. One of the biggest areas of contention now is the implementation of compulsory language tests.

Essentially, the new rules would require all Uber drivers to prove their English reading and writing skills via testing. Uber officials support the notion that drivers should speak English, but argue that the testing is too difficult.

In addition, London lawmakers also announced that private hire firms like Uber would have to open a London call center by Oct. 1, and drivers working for these companies must have insurance for vehicles even when they are not being used as private hire cars.

Officials argue that the new regulations will be bad for both drivers and the ride-hailing services, and would make it hard for start-up brands to get a foothold in a market such as London and other areas around the world.

The London Transport Authority has remained steadfast in its beliefs, and said it would defend its proposals in court.

“These have been introduced to enhance public safety when using private hire services and we are determined to create a vibrant taxi and private hire market with space for all providers to flourish,” a transport authority spokesperson told Reuters.