LTDA Chairman criticises lack of London taxi support compared to northern cities
- Perry Richardson
- Jun 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 9
The Chairman of the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA) has criticised London’s leadership for failing to support the capital’s taxi trade, drawing comparisons with stronger political backing in northern cities.
Writing in TAXI newspaper, Paul Brennan expressed frustration that while licensed taxi drivers in London continue to face challenges with access and recognition, city authorities in Manchester and Liverpool have taken meaningful steps to involve and support their own trades.
He highlighted the actions of Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who has publicly recognised the role of licensed taxis in the transport network. Liverpool City Council has also joined Burnham’s ‘Backing our Taxis’ campaign, involving drivers in consultations and shaping local policy.
Brennan said this contrasted sharply with the approach of Mayor Sadiq Khan and Transport for London (TfL). He pointed to the latest transport action plan released in the capital, which he said failed to acknowledge the contribution of London’s taxi drivers.
He argued that licensed taxis are a vital part of the capital’s transport network, particularly when other services are unavailable. Brennan said the sector is not demanding preferential treatment, but simply equal standing and inclusion in decisions that affect their working conditions and the public they serve.
According to Brennan, London’s approach is no longer leading the way as it once did. He said that while cities like Manchester and Liverpool are now setting positive examples, TfL is falling short.
Brennan said in TAXI newspaper: “While London taxi drivers are left fighting for every inch of road, their counterparts up north are receiving long-overdue recognition and support from their city leaders and councils.
“Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has been outspoken in his backing of the city’s licensed taxi trade, recognising the essential role it plays in public transport and mobility. Likewise, Liverpool City Council has publicly supported Burnham’s ‘Backing our Taxis’ campaign, making efforts to involve the industry in consultations and ensuring its needs are considered in local transport policy.
“Contrast that with the recent action plan unveiled by London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Transport for London (TfL), where licensed taxis were shown no such backing. For a sector that continues to operate regardless, often serving as a lifeline for key workers and the vulnerable 24/7, especially when most other options are shut down, the lack of acknowledgment feels like a profound oversight.
“London’s cabbies aren’t asking for special treatment, they’re asking for some parity. The support shown to taxi drivers in Liverpool and Manchester should serve as a model. If those cities can recognise and respect the contribution of professional drivers, there’s no reason the capital can’t follow suit.
“A more inclusive, transparent approach to transport planning in London isn’t just a matter of fairness, it’s a necessity. Taxis are part of the public transport network. Their exclusion from key decisions is not just an insult to drivers, but a disservice to the travelling public.
“Once upon a time, London’s regulatory regime led the UK. What London did, others simply followed. But not anymore. They have realised what we have known for too long, that the TfL actually stands for Totally Failing London.”
