Minister and MPs discuss concerns over feasibility of taxi guarantee schemes for disabled passengers
- Perry Richardson
- 33 minutes ago
- 2 min read
MPs have raised concerns over the deliverability of proposed taxi guarantee schemes intended to support disabled bus users under Clause 18 of the Bus Services (No. 2) Bill.
The clause, debated on 1 July by the Public Bill Committee, would allow local transport authorities to include requirements for such schemes within enhanced partnership (EP) arrangements. These partnerships between councils and bus operators are designed to improve local bus services through coordinated planning and shared standards.
Transport Minister Simon Lightwood confirmed that the clause enables taxi guarantee schemes to be included to help disabled people travel independently, safely and with reasonable comfort when buses are not available or suitable.
However, MPs questioned whether the clause sets realistic expectations, particularly in areas with limited taxi supply.
Rebecca Smith MP highlighted the gap between intention and reality in her South West Devon constituency. She explained that even in urban parts of Plymouth, accessibility services such as Access Plymouth minibuses are limited, and the situation worsens in surrounding rural areas where bus services are infrequent and taxis are not reliably available. She cited a recent example of a local taxi company announcing it was fully booked, raising doubts about whether a guarantee scheme could be implemented.
Smith also questioned why the clause uses the wording “may specify” rather than “must specify,” noting that this gives local authorities the option to avoid introducing such schemes altogether. She warned that without firm requirements or clear delivery plans, the clause risks offering disabled passengers “false hope.”
Liberal Democrat MP Paul Kohler acknowledged the potential value of taxi guarantee schemes but supported concerns around availability. He said the clause could bring meaningful change but only if the supporting infrastructure exists.
Shadow Minister Jerome Mayhew asked the Government what assessments had been made about the availability of taxis, especially in rural areas, and what could prevent a local authority from delivering such a scheme.
Responding, Minister Lightwood said the clause was drafted in response to issues raised in the House of Lords and after discussions with disability groups and the Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee. He did not provide detail on the feasibility assessments but stressed the clause gives authorities more flexibility to meet local needs.
The inclusion of taxi guarantee schemes in legislation has been broadly welcomed, but there is a clear divide between policy ambition and service capacity, particularly outside urban centres.
