German court u-turn over Uber ban

Car hire and pick-up service Uber has won a court ruling that reverses a national ban in Germany.

A judge in Frankfurt's regional court ruled that the taxi companies which asked for the ban have done it too late for an emergency injunction to be considered.

The ruling issued in the beginning of the month had stated that Uber lacks the required legal permits to operate under German law and was told to stop carrying passengers or it would face a fine otherwise.

However, judge Frowin Kurth stressed that the court hasn’t changed its views about the way the company operates.

“Even after deliberations, the court sticks to its view that Taxis Deutschland can win a ban against Uber.

“But after reviewing the arguments in this emergency case we have to reverse the ruling since this isn’t an urgent case. Only for that reason we lift the ban,” judge Kurth said.

Other European cities have also complained about the company hurting competition.

Earlier this year, Brussels also banned the service and applied €10,000 fines to drivers who get caught carrying private passengers.

In London, black cabs drivers groups and the union Unite have also aired their grievances and are planning further protests against Uber and other companies, under allegations they don't practise fair prices.