Last week’s stunning announcement by Transport for London that Uber is to be denied a licence to operate in London is merely the latest skirmish in an unfolding war. On one side stand those who see a traditional, yet invaluable, role for politicians and statutory bodies in providing rules and regulations to protect consumers and employees. On the other is a growing body of tech-savvy consumers and flexible, modern workers who delight in a very different and more anarchic way of transacting. The long-term implications of this battle go far beyond the technicalities of the London taxi market and, even if they don’t fully realise it yet, are of enormous significance for the Labour Party, which gathers this week in Brighton for its annual conference.