Uber seeks more London talks as it appeals license ban

Bloomberg

Uber Technologies Inc., the world’s largest startup, appealed a London regulator’s decision to revoke the car service’s license as it seeks more settlement talks.
Uber, which can continue to operate during the legal process, was banned by Transport for London over safety concerns and the company’s attempts to avoid regulation. The appeal, which could drag on for months, was filed at Westminster Magistrate’s Court, the company said. “We hope to continue having constructive discussions with Transport for London,” Uber said. “We are determined to make things right.”
The license talks in London is just one of a range of issue Uber is currently battling. The company is facing at least five criminal probes from the US Justice Department, ranging from issues including possible bribes, illicit software, questionable pricing schemes and theft of a competitor’s intellectual property.
The UK capital’s authorities said the San Francisco-based company hasn’t properly reported crimes or done adequate background checks on drivers, concluding the firm doesn’t pass the “fit and proper” test to operate.
While Uber has begun the appeal process, primarily to keep its drivers operating in London, the company is keen to avoid a lengthy court battle, according to a person familiar with the matter.
London is a flagship city for Uber outside its U.S. home market, and a petition launched by the ride-sharing app to protest TfL’s decision has gathered more than 800,000 signatures.