Theresa May calls Uber's London ban 'disproportionate' and says it damages 'millions of lives'

Ride-hailing firm is planning to appeal after its renewal application was rejected

'I want to see a level playing field. I think a blanket ban is disproportionate,' the PM says (AFP/Getty Images)

Banning Uber in London is a "disproportionate" move that puts thousands of jobs at risk, Theresa May has said

Lives will be damaged by Transport for London's decision backed by Labour London mayor Sadiq Khan to deny it a new operating licence, according to the Prime Minister.

The ride-hailing firm is planning to appeal after its renewal application was rejected on the grounds of "public safety and security implications".

Ms May told the BBC: "At a stroke of a pen, what the mayor has done is risked 40,000 jobs and of course ... damaged the lives of those 3.5 million Uber users.

"Yes there are safety concerns and issues for Uber to address, but what I want to see is a level playing field between the private firms and our wonderful London taxis, our black cabs, our great national institution.

"I want to see a level playing field. I think a blanket ban is disproportionate."

A spokesman for the mayor said: "Sadiq has every sympathy with customers and drivers of Uber, but is clear that any anger must be directed at Uber itself.

"Regulation is there for a reason and it would have been wrong for TfL to have renewed Uber's licence if they had concerns about Uber being a fit and proper operator.

"All companies must play by the rules and adhere to the high standards we expect - particularly when it comes to the safety of customers.

"London deserves the best taxi and private hire services available and Sadiq is determined to ensure the capital has a vibrant market, with space for all providers to flourish."

Press Association