2 Uber managers detained in France over low-cost service
Jun 29, 10:44 AM EDT
2 Uber managers detained in France over low-cost service
PARIS (AP) -- French authorities took two Uber managers
into custody for questioning on Monday over "illicit activity"
involving its low-cost service.
The detentions came amid rising tensions between the
government and the ride-hailing company, which culminated last week in a
violence-marred taxi strike that blocked roads around the country.
French authorities are frustrated that Uber doesn't pay
the same taxes and social charges as traditional taxis, whose drivers have
lashed out against what they see as unfair competition. Uber, meanwhile, argues
that the French system is outdated and needs reform to keep up with apps and
geo-localization.
Uber did not immediately respond to a request for comment
on Monday but officials last week vowed to keep operating the lowest-cost
UberPop service until France's top court rules on it. A spot check of the app
on Monday showed drivers available in central Paris.
Agnes Thibault-Lecuivre, the Paris prosecutor's
spokeswoman, did not name the two Uber managers detained on Monday.
The standoff reflects larger tensions in France over how
to regulate fast-moving technology and stay globally competitive while ensuring
labor protections.
Uber has also run into legal problems elsewhere in
Europe, as well as in China and India.
© 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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