Uber cars bashed in Mexico, cabbies protest rideshare apps

Those who believe the GMB is mainly concerned about the livelihood of Uber’s drivers may be puzzled to discover that just six weeks ago the union was calling for the startup’s taxi licence in London to be revoked over claims its vetting process was inadequate. Using Uber, I’ve experienced low wait times, and have ridden in newer, clean cars driven by an engaging person who is familiar with the area.

In addition, it is challenging the company over health and safety including rest breaks for drivers and work hours.

“Operators like Uber must understand that they have an ethical and social policy that matches societies” expectations of fair and honest treatment”, said Steve Garelick, branch secretary of GMB professional drivers branch. Drivers are hailed by users of the Uber smartphone app, which is also used to track journeys and process payments.

The union has hired law firm Leigh Day to lodge a group claim at an employment tribunal.

GMB’s demands echo a June ruling by the California Labor Commission, which found that the company owed money for costs incurred by an Uber driver while shuttling around customers in the vehicle she owned. “In particular, its drivers should not be denied the right to minimum wage and paid leave”.

GMB also said Uber should be required to implement a proper complaints system to stop drivers being suspended without an opportunity to challenge decisions.

An Uber spokesperson said: “One of the main reasons drivers use Uber is because they love being their own boss”.

The action alleges that services like Uber X and Uber XL have created an “enormous marketplace” for illegal transportation in the city.

Uber, as much a Marmite company as any other, claims that drivers are “partners” not “employees”, and are therefore not entitled to usually employee rights. Only London cabbies can use taximeters, so if they’re correct, Uber would technically be breaking the law.

Bogota’s leftist administration said it was willing to mediate between the taxi drivers and the National Government that is now trying to figure out how to regulate Uber, which has caused similar taxi protests across the globe.