London tube strike: Cab drivers condemn Uber's high fares

It has become somewhat of a trend, a tube strike hits and the cold war between black cab and Uber drivers strikes.

As the tube strike kicks in, Uber has once again started its usual marketing –emailing its customers with the usual subject line: "Keeping London moving."

A message on the Uber app also warns customers that fares will be higher than usual.

The Licensed Taxi Drivers Association (LTDA), however urges commuters to opt for shared rides in metered cabs instead of supporting Uber, which it claims is "exploiting" people.

"The best station is Euston because they have people managing their taxi queue. Adopt the Blitz spirit. Talk to other people, find out where they're going, share a cab," said Steve McNamara, the LTDA's general secretary, reported BBC News.

Meanwhile, Uber maintains that despite not using taxi meters, the company does use an algorithm to charge consumers.

"Our drivers can have absolutely no control over the algorithm. When you've booked your car you're warned [the fare] will be a bit more than usual," said an Uber spokesman.

The 24-hour tube strike started around 6:30pm BST.

Meanwhile, London mayor Boris Johnson has warned the night tube service might not start as planned on 12 September.

"I'm not too fussed about the start date. We said we would get it in this Autumn and we shall," said Johnson, reported The Independent.

"I want it starting in the autumn - what I am fussed about is the offer being put to union members. I am not going to authorise any more money. Most people would recognise that this is a very generous deal."