Government ‘considering options’ to tighten rules as MP raises question over out-of-area TfL Uber drivers
An MP questioned the impact of London-licensed Uber drivers operating in non-metropolitan areas, prompting the Government to say it is currently considering stricter regulations.
Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Northern Ireland, Al Pinkerton, recently questioned the Secretary of State for Transport on how this practice affects independent taxi businesses.
Pinkerton asked via a written parliamentary question: “What assessment her Department has made of the impact of London-licensed Uber drivers operating in non-metropolitan areas on the viability of independent taxi businesses.”
In response, Simon Lightwood, Department for Transport. (DfT) minister, confirmed that taxis and private hire vehicles have long been allowed to accept pre-booked fares outside their licensing area. This flexibility, he said, helps meet passenger demand.
However, the Government acknowledges concerns over drivers working outside the regions where they are licensed. Officials are now said to be reviewing options to tighten regulations, though no specific proposals have been announced.
The issue has been a point of contention within the taxi industry for some time, with independent operators arguing that cross-border working gives large firms an unfair advantage. Local licensing authorities also face challenges in enforcing standards when drivers operate beyond their jurisdiction.
Lightwood MP said: “Taxis and private hire vehicles have always been permitted to carry pre-booked fares outside the area in which they are licensed. This allows the sector to work more flexibly to meet the needs of their passengers.
“The Government however recognises concerns around out-of-area working and is considering options to strengthen the regulation of the sector.”
