London proposes tougher rules for app-based taxi firms like Uber

Demanding an equal playing field: Drivers of London's famous black cabs have long argued that Uber bypasses local licensing and safety laws and amounts to unfair competition.

LONDON: London's transport chiefs announced plans to tighten control on private hire vehicles (PHV), a move that could hit app-based ride-hailing firms such as Uber. 

Drivers of the city's famous black cabs have argued Uber bypasses local licensing and safety laws and amounts to unfair competition. They have staged a number of high-profile protests, including go-slow demonstrations that have brought traffic in the centre of London to a standstill.