London Mayor urges government to “think again” over the need for taxi plying-for-hire definitions

The London Mayor has again urged Government to “clearly define” the difference between taxi and private hire services. Sadiq Khan stated that a clearly defined definition of ‘plying for hire’ and ‘pre-booked’ would remove any ambiguity and help provide enhanced clarity for drivers, operators, regulators and those using the vehicles.

Khan, responding to a question on the subject from Assembly Member David Kurten, also showed his disappointment in the Government for not taking forward the need for statutory definitions within both industries and urged them to “think again”. The London Mayor, Sadiq Khan, said: “Alongside TfL, I have repeatedly called for a statutory definition of “plying for hire” and “pre-booked” services to remove any ambiguity and clearly define the difference between taxi and private hire services. A statutory definition would also provide greater clarity for licensees, regulators and users of those services. “The Department for Transport-commissioned Taxi and Private Hire Task and Finish Group report, written by the Independent Chair Professor Mohammed Abdel-Haq also highlighted the need for statutory definitions. “It is disappointing that the Government is not taking this forward and I urge them to think again. I welcome the support of the Assembly in lobbying Government on this matter.” 

Image credit: LEVC