Government reaffirms need to consider taxis and PHV as ‘part of their local transport planning’

The Government reaffirmed their expectations that local authorities outside of London should consider taxis and private hire vehicles as “part of their local transport planning”.

Julian Knight MP asked the Secretary of State for Transport if she will make an assessment of the role played by taxi and private hire vehicle services in supporting connected communities in rural, areas, towns, and cities outside London with poor public transport links.

Lucy Frazer, a Department for Transport (DfT) Minister, replied: “Taxis and private hire vehicles have an important role in local transport networks across the country.

“In towns and cities, for example, they can provide an important "first mile-last mile" role, connecting people to transport hubs. In rural areas, where public transport and local facilities may be limited, taxis and PHVs can meet a range of transport needs.

“The Government expects local authorities to consider taxis and private hire vehicles as part of their local transport planning.”

The comments follow Baroness Vere of Norbiton's recent foreword statement in the recent Best Practice Guidance consultation. Baroness Vere said: “Taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs) play a critical role in keeping our country moving, allowing people to travel safely and easily.”