OUT-OF-AREA CONCERNS: What will taxi drivers be hoping for from the Government’s Cross-Border licensing review?
Taxi drivers across the UK have long been calling for urgent reforms as the Government considers changes to the current licensing rules that allow drivers to operate across different local authority areas.
This follows growing concerns over the impact of cross-border hiring, where taxis licensed in one area work in another, often undercutting local drivers and compromising safety standards.
The issue was recently raised in Parliament by Tom Gordon, Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, who questioned the Secretary of State for Transport on how the government plans to address the problem.
Simon Lightwood, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Transport, responded by acknowledging these concerns, stating that both he and the Secretary of State are reviewing the current regulatory framework and considering changes.
At the core of the drivers' demands is the need for clearer geographical boundaries to restrict where taxis and private hire vehicles can operate. The current system allows drivers licensed in areas with potentially less stringent rules to work in regions with stricter standards, a loophole that drivers argue leads to unfair competition. Local drivers, who adhere to higher regulatory requirements, feel undercut by out-of-town operators who face fewer restrictions.
Safety is another significant concern for drivers. With different licensing authorities enforcing varying safety standards, many in the industry believe a national standard should be introduced. Drivers are calling for uniform requirements for background checks, vehicle inspections, and insurance to ensure that passengers are protected, no matter where a vehicle is licensed.
Enforcement is also high on the list of changes drivers want to see. Many believe that local authorities need more power to regulate and monitor out-of-area drivers operating within their jurisdictions. Stronger enforcement would not only ensure that drivers adhere to local standards but also help protect the livelihoods of those licensed in that area. Penalties for those flouting the rules could be a key deterrent to unauthorised cross-border operations.
Ultimately, taxi drivers want a system that promotes fairness and consistency across the industry. They hope the Government’s review will address the disparity between different licensing authorities and introduce measures that create a level playing field, while also enhancing safety for passengers.
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