NO STRICT DRESS CODE WANTED say majority of taxi drivers asked

The majority of taxi drivers around the UK that were asked by TaxiPoint, said they didn't think it was a necessity to require cabbies to adhere to a strict dress code, although many said smart and clean dress should be expected.

Most licensing authorities around the UK avoid implementing a strict dress code for taxi drivers, although many do prohibit certain items of clothing such as football jerseys, short-shorts and footwear such as flip flops.

There have been reports of some drivers taking advantage of lenient dress code requirements by wearing, well let's say, not very flattering attire for the professional service they offer.

TaxiPoint asks hundreds of taxi drivers around the UK if they thought the industry's dress code needed tidying up. The results came back conclusive; drivers should dress smart and appear clean, but strict uniformed dress code requirements are not wanted or needed.

As self-employed workers, many cabbies believe it's up to them what they wear on a day to day basis while on shift and would expect the majority to take basic pride in their appearance regardless.

When asked what he thought, private hire driver Andy said: "Why? If I'm sat in the car all day, the most important thing is comfort, I'm a taxi driver. If you want me to dress like a chauffeur, they can pay chauffeur prices."

David, another cabbie, responded: "Not a chance. I gave up being told what to wear 40 years ago and nobody is going to start telling me now. So long as what I wear is clean and in good repair, that does me."

John Price had the same views, saying: "If I'm sat in a car all day I'm wearing tracksuit bottoms and a t shirt/hoodie. If you want dress code call a limousine/chauffeur, not a cab."

Steve Kenton, a London taxi driver added to the conversation. He said: "Branded tee and polo shirts promoting the taxi industry, pair of black trousers or black jeans and maybe a tailored pair of shorts for summer."

And for comedy purposes, Steve added: "No mankinis though - they chafe in warm weather." No comment, Steve.

But not everyone agreed, Allan said there should be a dress code and reminded us that the cost of the clothes can in fact be claimed back through expenses.

Mr Ahmed also concurred, saying: "Yes. The minimum requirement should be, full sleeve shirt, trousers and shoes. No hoodies, no t shirts, no baseball caps, no trainers or flip flops."