Uber Chief Executive Travis Kalanick Forced To Resign 

Uber chief executive Travis Kalanick has been forced to resign following a review of company practices and investigations into complaints of sexual harassment and bullying at the firm. Five top Uber investors demanded Kalanick's step down immediately, though he will remain on the board.

Last week he said he was taking an indefinite leave of absence following the sudden death of his mother in a boating accident.

Kalanick reportedly said: "I love Uber more than anything in the world and at this difficult moment in my personal life I have accepted the investors request to step aside so that Uber can go back to building rather than be distracted with another fight."

Uber's board said in a statement: "Travis has always put Uber first. This is a bold decision and a sign of his devotion and love for Uber.” It said that by “stepping away” he will have the chance to cope with his personal tragedy, while “giving the company room to fully embrace this new chapter in Uber's history”.

The firm has been searching for a chief operating officer, but now can seek out Fortune 500 chief executives to take over the top spot, he said.

The ride-hailing company has been hit with controversies, including the departure of high-level executives and the sacking of more than 20 staff with action taken against others over more than 200 HR (human resources) complaints of harassment and bullying. In February Uber said it was investigating "abhorrent" sexual harassment claims made by former Uber engineer Susan Fowler.