NEW ROLE ROADBLOCK: The case for a London TfL Taxi and Private Hire Commissioner falters
- Perry Richardson
- Jul 5
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 6
Suggestions of appointing a dedicated Taxi and Private Hire Commissioner for London have hit a roadblock after the London Assembly’s Transport Committee voted against the proposal. While early indications suggested cross-party support, opposition from Labour and the Green Party has effectively shut down the initiative for now.
The idea was floated as a response to persistent concerns about how the taxi and private hire sector is governed in the capital. Supporters argued that a commissioner could bring greater clarity, accountability and responsiveness to a trade that often feels side-lined by broader transport policy.
According to taxi representatives in previous meetings, several Assembly Members had spoken positively about the concept. But when it came to the vote a split result saw the proposal fall.
The Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA) described the outcome as disappointing. They had viewed the role as an opportunity to create a single point of responsibility within Transport for London (TfL) to oversee issues such as licensing, enforcement, compliance and policy alignment.
Instead, the committee will now explore other options, though none appear to offer the same level of direct oversight or industry engagement. Support for the commissioner idea is said to remain strong among Conservative Assembly Members.
Had the proposal gone through, the Commissioner role would have likely acted as a liaison between trade bodies, regulators, drivers, and City Hall. It could also have created an independent channel for complaints and policy review.
An LTDA spokesperson said in TAXI Newspaper: “After a motion was put to the Transport Committee, it seems there weren’t as many in favour as first though, because both the Labour Party and the Green Party voted against the proposal, a source has revealed.
“This is disappointing news from an industry perspective, as it would have been beneficial to have had this role in place moving forward. It would have helped strengthen the position of the taxi industry around the capital, so let’s hope one day it will still happen.
“More ways are being explored in an attempt to continue the push for a commissioner position, with Conservatives seemingly in favour of the idea.”
