Transport for London have failed to renew Uber’s license to operate in the capital, detailing safety concerns and a “lack of corporate responsibility”.

TfL said it was not a “fit and proper” taxi operator, and said it will lose its license when its existing one expires on September 30th. The company will have 21 days to appeal the decision, during which it can continue to operate.

Tom Elvidge, general manager of Uber in London, said: “3.5 million Londoners who use our app, and more than 40,000 licensed drivers who rely on Uber to make a living, will be astounded by this decision.

“By wanting to ban our app from the capital Transport for London and the Mayor have caved in to a small number of people who want to restrict consumer choice.

“If this decision stands, it will put more than 40,000 licensed drivers out of work and deprive Londoners of a convenient and affordable form of transport.

“We have always followed TfL rules on reporting serious incidents and have a dedicated team who work closely with the Metropolitan Police.”

TfL said Uber’s approach to business highlights several important safety implications, including its “approach to reporting serious criminal offences” and “its approach to how medical certificates are obtained.”

Uber was granted its four-month temporary license back in May.