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Mayor of London promises toilet and kitchen facilities for private hire drivers if re-elected
The Mayor of London has today promised toilet and kitchen facilities for private hire drivers if re-elected next month.
In a move to bolster the working conditions of London's private hire vehicle (PHV) drivers, Sadiq Khan unveiled a support package based on his re-election on 2 May.
The current Mayor is advocating for enhanced rights and protections for the city’s 105,000 PHV drivers.
Khan, who is seeking re-election, expressed his commitment to "stand up for hardworking drivers", acknowledging their contribution to London's economy yet noting their frequent neglect. He highlighted the challenges faced by many drivers, including antisocial working hours and the risk of abuse or attacks.
To improve the situation, Khan plans to establish a new PHV taskforce. This body will consist of drivers, their representatives, and major industry operators, aiming to enhance working conditions across the sector.
A significant outcome from this taskforce will be the creation of new driver hubs, designed to provide drivers with rest breaks and access to adequate facilities.
Additionally, Khan is set to launch a ‘Respect’ campaign aimed at raising public awareness about the professional drivers’ role and the challenges they encounter. This campaign also seeks to curb antisocial and aggressive behaviour towards drivers.
Khan has also influenced Transport for London (TfL) to adapt the Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding (SERU) assessment, which is mandatory for PHV licence applications and renewals. Following driver feedback, the assessment now includes an open-book format and an extended completion time of 60 minutes. A temporary suspension of enforcement action has been implemented during this trial period.
Sadiq Khan said: “From the PHV drivers who get us home, to the couriers who deliver us food from our favourite restaurants, professional drivers play an essential role in the economic fabric of our capital. They are here for us when we want them to be, and we should be there for them in return.
“It should be a given that drivers are able to make a living safely and in comfort, but too often they have limited access to facilities such as toilets or kitchens, and face abuse or violence simply for doing their jobs. Their concerns are too often ignored.
"That’s why today I am announcing a further package of support for London’s hardworking drivers if re-elected on 2 May. A new taskforce will ensure that we’re doing everything we can to deliver the facilities and support our drivers need. And through launching a new respect campaign across the capital, I’ll work to ensure all Londoners give drivers the respect they deserve.”
Steve Garelick, GMB London lead officer, transport and logistics, said: “GMB are proud to support London’s PHV drivers and have worked with Deliveroo and Uber to improve conditions for our members. We welcome this range of measures which would make a big difference to the everyday lives of hardworking drivers.”
