Regulation is the problem – not Uber

The Government’s standoff with Uber shows we need to simplify transport regulations, says ACT Leader David Seymour.

“As Uber flouts licencing rules, Simon Bridges says NZTA is ‘considering all available options’. This ought to include simply scrapping the red tape around licencing,” says Mr Seymour.

“If the Minister capitulates to taxi lobbyists and bans Uber, it would send the completely wrong message about New Zealand’s attitude toward technological change.

“While it's true that Uber is breaking the rules, the bureaucratic licencing process is simply not necessary for public safety. Instead of drowning Uber in the same sea of paperwork as taxi companies, we could just cut the licencing bureaucracy, allowing everyone to compete on an even playing field.

“Criminal background and driving history checks cost under $50 and take only a couple of days, so why does getting a passenger licence cost up to $2000 and take months? This stinks of revenue gathering and protectionism for established operators.

“Cutting licencing costs and delays for all operators would result in a more efficient and competitive transport market.”

David Seymour wrote on Sunday about how red tape is slowing down innovation.

ENDS

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