London Cabbies launch multi-million pound group action claim against Uber

London’s cab drivers are coming together as Cabbie Group Action to bring a potential group legal action against Uber worth over £500 million for damages and loss of earnings due to the alleged unlawful operation of Uber under the relevant statutory framework.

The Group Action will bring a claim in the High Court by licensed taxi drivers in London against Uber for loss of income on the basis that Uber has operated unlawfully under the relevant statutory framework between mid-2012 to at least the end of 2017, with the intention of causing loss to the licensed taxi trade. 

Supported by leading law firm Mishcon de Reya, the claim is being officially backed by a wide variety of organisations involved in the licensed cab trade, including: 

• Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association

• Unite the Union

• United Cabbies Group

• London Cab Drivers Club

• TaxiPoint

• KPM Automotive

• Easyrentacab Ltd

• Colts Cabs Ltd

• Cricklewood Carriers Cab Company Limited

• Martin Cordell and Co

• Sherbet Cars

• Ubiquitous

With a third party funder in place, cabbies can join the claim knowing that their legal costs will be covered.

Cabbies are being encouraged to sign up to the claim by registering their interest on the website www.cabbiegroupaction.com.

Commenting on the claim, the LTDA’s General Secretary, Steve McNamara said, “We recognise that there needs to be a level playing field between minicabs and licensed cabs on London streets but we believe Uber has operated unlawfully, resulting in a loss of earnings for many qualified licensed cab drivers. It is vital that they are recompensed for their losses. Perhaps only then will licensed cabs and Uber be operating on an even footing, which we all would welcome.”

Unite the Union’s Mike Hedges said, “Unite is pleased to support Cabbie Group Action against Uber. Cabbie Group Action is important in winning back the losses that taxi drivers have suffered.”

Asher Moses, CEO and founder of Sherbet London said “Sherbet London fully supports this action and encourages all London taxi drivers to register via www.cabbiegroupaction.com. London taxis and drivers are an integral part of our transportation network, and an action like this reinforces the importance across all of London.”