Department for Transport says black cab driver support and welfare is a matter for TfL, not central government
- Perry Richardson
- Jul 11
- 2 min read
The Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed that responsibility for the safety and financial viability of London’s black taxi drivers lies primarily with Transport for London (TfL).
The statement was made in response to a parliamentary question from Andrew Rosindell MP, who asked what action had been taken to support licensed taxi drivers in terms of both their safety and financial stability.
Simon Lightwood MP, a DfT Minister, said TfL is in charge of regulating the capital’s taxi industry. He added that it is down to the licensing authority to take safety and cost concerns into account within its regulatory approach.
Lightwood also pointed to the department’s broader role in supporting licensing bodies. He highlighted the publication of the “Taxis and private hire vehicles licensing best practice guidance” which advises all licensing authorities to take into account the needs of both drivers and passengers when shaping their policies.
On the financial front, Lightwood referenced the Government’s funding contribution of over £75 million to help cab drivers switch to cleaner vehicles. The funding has assisted in the purchase of more than 10,500 zero emission capable taxis through the Plug-in Taxi Grant scheme.
However, no additional measures specifically tailored to the capital’s taxi trade were mentioned beyond the existing collaboration with TfL and funding for green vehicles.
Lightwood said: “The taxi industry in London is the direct responsibility of Transport for London, including considering the safety and costs to drivers as part of their regulatory regime. The Department for Transport has supported the work of TfL and other licensing bodies by providing the “Taxis and private hire vehicles licensing best practice guidance for licensing authorities” which is clear that licensing authorities must consider ways to protect those working in the trade as well as those that use its services.
“In addition, DfT has provided funding of over £75m to support with the cost of purchasing over 10,500 zero emission capable taxis through the Plug in Taxi Grant.”
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