In recognition that the landscape had changed significantly since the Law Commission’s report – in terms of both greater awareness of safeguarding issues linked to taxis and PHVs, and the growth of app based models - in 2017 the DfT set up a working group to consider the adequacy and efficiency of legislation and guidance concerning the licensing of taxis and PHVs in England.
#A TAXI DRIVER 2017 COVER UPDATE#
The Commission’s 2014 report included a draft Bill with a comprehensive set of proposals to completely update and replace taxi and PHV legislation, although recommendations were not taken forward. In 2011 the Department for Transport (DfT) invited the Law Commission to undertake a review of taxi and PHV licensing. This legislation is widely regarded as outdated and has not adequately kept pace with developments in technology and the need to ensure passengers are protected. There are a number of other Acts which also have an impact for example the Equalities Act 2010, which places a duty on councils to take steps to meet the needs of disabled people where these are different from the needs of other people, and enables regulations to improve disabled access to taxis. The legislation provides a broad framework for the licensing of drivers, vehicles and operators, but the detail of how this is done, including standards and conditions, is the responsibility of individual district and unitary councils (‘licensing authorities’). Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) legislation is primarily concentrated in the Town Police Clauses Act 1847 (the 1847 Act) and the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 (the 1976 Act). Vehicles with a seating capacity of more than eight passenger seats, which can include some stretch limousines, are licensed by the Traffic Commissioners, who are appointed by the Transport Secretary. The term ‘PHV’ is used throughout this handbook to refer to all such vehicles.Ĭouncils are only responsible for the licensing of vehicles which carry up to a maximum of eight passengers. Private hire vehicles (PHVs) include a range of vehicles such as minicabs, executive cars, limousines and chauffeur services. The term ‘taxi’ is used throughout this handbook and refers to all such vehicles.
Taxis are referred to in legislation, regulation and common language as ‘hackney carriages’, ‘black cabs’ and ‘cabs’. The handbook has been updated reflect new statutory standards published by the Department for Transport in July 2020.Ĭhair, LGA Safer and Stronger Communities Board The regulatory framework for taxis and PHVs – an overview It is intended to be used as a starting point to explain some of the difficulties that can arise in this complex area of business regulation, but of course, is not a replacement for the training provided by your own authority. We have developed this handbook to help you use these tools and understand some of the key issues concerning taxi and PHV licensing. Until then, it is incumbent on us to do the best we can with the tools at our disposal. The Local Government Association (LGA) is lobbying for a Taxi and PHV Licensing Reform Bill to modernise the governance system for taxis and PHVs and better protect passengers from the many and varied risks which now exist. One of the main pieces of legislation dates from 1847, which means it predates even the earliest motor vehicles let alone online and mobile booking apps. Unfortunately, the existing licensing system is outdated and needs urgent reform. They have also played a key role in ensuring key workers can get to work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Taxis and PHVs have a particularly important role in the night-time economy, ensuring the public return home safely, and can be helpful in ensuring that people disperse quickly and peacefully after events. There are economic benefits too in enabling visitors to move quickly and safely through your area. It is essential that we take seriously our responsibility to determine whether someone is a ‘fit and proper’ person to hold a licence.
#A TAXI DRIVER 2017 COVER DRIVERS#
Clearly, drivers must therefore command the highest level of confidence before they can be entrusted with this responsibility.
Taxis are regularly used to transport children during the school run.Įlderly and disabled users also rely heavily on the door-to-door service taxis and PHVs provide, as it is often the only way for many residents to access local services.
Our critical responsibilities in licensing these drivers and vehicles have been highlighted by dreadful examples of licensed vehicle drivers and/or operators being involved in the sexual exploitation of children. As elected members, we are responsible for ensuring the public travel safely and receive a good level of service, and that our systems attract good, reputable drivers. Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles (PHVs) are vital to our communities whether it’s the iconic black cab in our cities or the flexible minicab in a rural district.
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