Matthew met with a group of Black Cab drivers to listen to their concerns about Uber, the Super Cycle Highway, traffic congestion in London and the future of the taxi industry.

The regulation of Black Cabs is a matter for the Mayor of London and the London Assembly but as drivers' concerns have been going unheeded, Matthew invited local cabbies to meet him. The number of licensed mini cab drivers in London has soared to around 120,000, driving 87,000 vehicles - of which 30,000 are registered with Uber. Matthew listened to concerns about the safety and security of these new drivers who do not have the 'knowledge' of London's streets, have to rely on a Sat-Nav and allegedly illegally ply for hire.

The London Taxi Drivers Association (LTDA) has opposed the renewal of a PHV Operator's License to Uber London Limited. Uber's current license expires on 31st May 2017 and the company is appealing a decision of a London Employment Tribunal that its drivers are workers rather than self-employed.

Matthew said: "If I am re-elected as MP I will seek answers about the regulation of Private Hire Vehicles and the ability of Uber to pay virtually no tax in the United Kingdom. There is a concern that many Uber drivers have to rely on in-work benefits which is, in effect, a cross subsidy from the taxes paid by Black Cab drivers. Black Cabs do cost more but their drivers train for their role, are subject to greater regulation and are a cultural attraction in London. I believe it is only right there should be a fair playing field across the industry."