Leipzig SPD calls for minimum tariffs for Uber and Co

The SPD in Leipzig is pushing for the reintroduction of minimum fares for ride-hailing services such as Uber. In a motion in the city council, the city administration is called upon to issue a new, legally secure general decree, the parliamentary group announced.

"With our motion, we would like to encourage the City of Leipzig and the Lord Mayor to issue a legally binding decree that ensures that the costs of cab rides in Leipzig are calculable for all citizens - and above all that these services remain available," explained Anja Feichtinger, Chairwoman of the parliamentary group.

Following the example of Heidelberg

This spring, a regulation on minimum transportation fees for rental cars - including Uber and the like - was passed, but then repealed following a legal dispute. It was the wrong signal to give up prematurely, criticized Feichtiger. She referred to the city of Heidelberg, where minimum prices for rental cars have been in force since August 1 and may not be more than 7.5 percent lower than local cab rates.

It is not yet clear when the SPD motion will be dealt with by Leipzig City Council. The parliamentary group does not have a majority, so it would have to rely on the approval of other parties.

Taxi industry in favor of minimum rates

The Saxon cab industry is also hoping for a quick return to minimum rates. "Only then can fair competition take place," said Jan Kepper, Chairman of the Saxon State Association of Taxi and Hire Car Companies. The cab industry is subject to many more legal obligations than the hire car sector. This also makes a cab ride more expensive. It must be prevented in advance that large companies destroy local markets.