Automated taxi permits to sit with Government ministers under new law, says Lord Hendy
- Perry Richardson
- Apr 2
- 1 min read
Updated: Apr 6
Responsibility for issuing permits to taxi and private hire operators of automated passenger services will fall to national ministers under the Automated Vehicles Act 2024, according to a government minister.
Responding to a question from Baroness Eaton, the Minister of State for Transport, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, confirmed that section 82 of the Act grants the power to issue Automated Passenger Services (APS) permits to the appropriate national authority.
For England, this will be the Secretary of State in relation to services resembling taxi and private hire operations. The same applies to public service vehicle operations across Great Britain.
In Scotland, the power sits with Scottish Ministers, and in Wales, Welsh Ministers will hold that responsibility.
The Act also allows the appropriate national authority to delegate these functions to Traffic Commissioners, either solely or jointly. Lord Hendy confirmed that a final decision is still being considered on whether Traffic Commissioners will exercise these functions in practice.
What is the Automated Vehicles Act 2024?
The Automated Vehicles Act 2024 is legislation designed to regulate the use of self-driving vehicles on UK roads, particularly for passenger services such as autonomous taxis and buses.
It sets out a framework for issuing permits to operators, establishes safety and liability requirements, and defines the roles of national and devolved authorities.
It aims to enable the commercial rollout of automated transport services, while maintaining public safety and regulatory control. The Act forms part of the UK Government’s broader strategy to support innovation and position the country as a leader in autonomous transport technology.
