GMB warns driverless cabs could threaten jobs

GMB has warned Transport for London (TfL) to proceed with caution after driverless cabs were granted private hire licences in the capital.

The union, which represents thousands of private hire drivers in London, said the move raises questions about the impact on jobs, public safety and passenger experience.

Matthew Wright, regional organiser at GMB, said: “This is a worrying development for our private hire driver members.

“We can’t go charging ahead with new technologies without considering the implications of autonomous vehicles on all parties.”

He added: “For drivers; how will they be supported to reskill and redeploy if their jobs go? How will society cope with the lost tax revenue and potential increases in unemployment?

“For the public, how will their safety be impacted? Who is liable for accidents? What implications are there for disabled passengers?

“And for passengers, driverless cars cannot replace the knowledge, experience, and human connection that a skilled driver offers.

“GMB urges TfL to proceed with extreme caution.”