Written Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan to Parliamentary Question on Assessment of Uber's Security Measures

Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for Transport in light of Uber being denied licence renewal in London due to security and safety concerns

a.     whether LTA has conducted assessments on Uber's security measures; 

b.     how satisfactory are those measures;

c.     how many accidents and safety issues has Uber been involved in the past one year; and

d.     what further measures will be implemented to improve safety and reliability of private-hire car operators in Singapore.

Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan:

1.     We take commuter safety seriously. We rely primarily on the Private Hire Car Driver's Vocational Licence (PDVL) scheme, rather than the efforts of Uber or other ride platforms, to protect our commuters.

2.     As part of the application process for a PDVL, LTA will screen the candidate's background and driving records. Individuals who have committed violent crimes or serious driving offences will be disqualified. Applicants are also required to attend courses and pass the requisite tests to ensure that they have the knowledge and skills. In addition, PDVL holders who are suspected of committing or are convicted of serious criminal or driving-related offences may have their PDVLs suspended or revoked.

3.     On their part, private hire car booking service operators need to ensure that only licensed drivers and cars are deployed on their platforms. LTA can serve a General Suspension Order on private hire car booking service operators whose drivers have been convicted for three times over a 12-month period.  The nature of convictions include (a) providing private hire car services without a valid vocational licence, (b) using an unlicensed vehicle to provide services, or (c) using a private hire car that is inappropriately insured. 

4.     Last year, drivers for private hire car booking service operators and traditional limousine companies were involved in about 700 road accidents. These accidents could have happened when the driver was driving for hire and reward, or in his personal capacity. There were also 9 instances where drivers for private hire car booking service operators were arrested for commuter-related crimes.

5.     We review our policies regularly to ensure that they are effective in ensuring commuter safety.