I am very happy that the rights of Uber drivers are being protected by the courts, but it is worth remembering that Uber isn’t just successful because it is cheap, it also offers a remarkably convenient service which is head and shoulders above what was available before (Uber is misleading drivers about its legal defeat, claims union, 30 October).
It is a joy to be able to see my car coming down the street rather than wandering the high street looking for a black cab or engaging in repeat conversations with a minicab operator (“he’s just coming, love – he’ll be there in three minutes, definitely”), followed by a 25-minute wait, occasionally a total no show. It is amazing to be driven from point A to point B in a foreign city without having to have the right cash or speak the language. I was wary at first, because of the social implications of the gig economy, but conversations with drivers have all been remarkably positive too.
They cite a lower per-mile payment, but many more fares than working for a minicab company and control over their hours, meaning you can pick your kids up from school and refuse to work on a Friday night if that’s what suits you and yours. I have no problem with fares going up to a level that covers workers’ rights – for me the level of convenience provided by the app is priceless.
Jade Saunders
London
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