Fair questions. Straight answers.
We’re a campaign opposing Uber in Fife, so it’s reasonable to question our claims too. Here are clear answers about who we are, what we want and the evidence behind the campaign.
Isn't Uber Fife just the taxi trade trying to stop competition?
Uber Fife is opposed to Uber, but not to competition. Our argument is that anyone providing taxi or private-hire services in Fife should compete on a fair basis, meet the same regulatory standards and be properly accountable to the communities in which they operate.
Are you claiming Uber is unsafe?
No transport service is risk-free, including local taxis. Our concern is whether licensing, enforcement, reporting and accountability work effectively when something does go wrong.
Is this website independent?
No. We don't pretend to be neutral. Uber Fife is a campaign run by Fife taxi and private-hire operators and drivers who oppose Uber's expansion in Fife. Where we make factual claims, our aim is to show the evidence and source material so readers can check it themselves.
Aren't local taxi firms simply frightened of cheaper competition?
Price is part of competition, but it isn't the whole issue. Licensing, driver standards, enforcement, local accountability and the economic effect on established local businesses are legitimate questions regardless of what a journey costs.
Do you have a financial interest in opposing Uber?
Yes. Many people involved in this campaign earn their living from the local taxi and private-hire trade. We think it is better to state that openly than pretend otherwise. Having a commercial interest does not make the evidence, regulatory questions or public-interest issues disappear.
Do you publish every complaint you receive about Uber?
No. Reports can be submitted confidentially, but allegations should not automatically be treated as established facts. Material published by Uber Fife should be capable of verification, appropriately sourced and anonymised where necessary.
Why single out Uber when local taxi drivers can also behave badly?
They can. Local drivers and operators should be held accountable too. The question is not whether one side is perfect. It is whether everyone carrying the public is properly licensed, identifiable and subject to effective enforcement.
Does Uber Fife want Uber banned?
The campaign opposes Uber's operation in Fife and challenges the way its local operation is licensed and regulated. The website exists to explain those concerns, document the evidence and give residents, drivers and operators somewhere to report problems.
Does Uber have a right of reply?
Absolutely. If Uber believes something factual on the site is inaccurate, it can identify the statement and provide supporting evidence. Genuine factual errors should be corrected.