Uber drivers to pass a test in English with TFL - legal challenge

Uber has launched a legal challenge against new rules in London that require thousands of its drivers to pass a test in English.

Transport for London (TfL) wants all private-hire drivers not from English-speaking countries to prove their language skills from October.

The exam will also test reading, writing and listening skills and Uber is also challenging rules requiring it to inform TfL of any upcoming changes to its app.

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Personally I think that taxi drivers operating legally in the UK should have to pass an English test. I have been in one or two in the past where the driver doesn't fully understand where I want to go and specific directions aren't always understood.

The majority of people in the UK still currently speak English so it makes sense that people working in a customer facing industry should have a firm grasp of the language. After all, you would expect someone working in a bank or a hospital who sees customers to speak and understand English wouldn't you?