Uber CEO Admits Mistakes, Apologizes To Londoners

Uber’s Chief Executive Dara Khosrowshahi

Uber’s Chief Executive Dara Khosrowshahi apologized on Monday for the taxi app’s mistakes in London and promised to change as the firm fights a decision by the city not to renew its license.

On Friday, the British capital’s transport regulator deemed Uber unfit to run a taxi service and decided not to renew its license to operate, which will end this week, citing the firm’s approach to reporting serious criminal offences and background checks on drivers.

“While Uber has revolutionized the way people move in cities around the world, it’s equally true that we’ve got things wrong along the way. On behalf of everyone at Uber globally, I apologize for the mistakes we’ve made,”  Khosrowshahi wrote in an open letter.

“We will appeal the decision on behalf of millions of Londoners, but we do so with the knowledge that we must also change.”

It will be recalled that the transport regulator in London had said that Uber approach to transportation lacked corporate responsibility in relation to a number of issues which have potential public safety and security implications.

According to the regulator, the final day of Uber’s license will be on Sep. 30.  Uber has the right to appeal the decision within 21 days

In London, Uber has faced criticism from unions, lawmakers and traditional black cab drivers over working conditions. Globally, Uber has endured a tumultuous few months after a string of scandals involving allegations of sexism and bullying at the company, leading to investor pressure which forced out former CEO and co-founder Travis Kalanick.

The app has been forced to quit several countries including Denmark and Hungary and faced regulatory battles in multiple U.S. states and countries around the world. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said he backed the decision. “All companies in London must play by the rules and adhere to the high standards we expect – particularly when it comes to the safety of customers,” he said.

“It would be wrong if TfL continued to license Uber if there is any way that this could pose a threat to Londoners’ safety and security.” Uber said it would challenge a decision by London’s transport regulator on Friday to strip it of its license to operate from the end of the month.