Q&A WITH ACSS: We ask why CCTV should be mandatory in taxis and PHV nationwide?
- Perry Richardson
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
TaxiPoint sat down with taxi and private hire CCTV specialists ACSS to explore one of the most hotly debated issues in the industry: whether in-vehicle CCTV should become a mandatory requirement under national taxi and private hire standards. With discussions around safety, enforcement and cross-border working continuing to gather pace, ACSS sets out its position on the role technology can play in protecting drivers and passengers, while addressing concerns around privacy, cost and regulatory oversight.
In the interview, ACSS draws on direct feedback from fleet operators and drivers to explain why it believes properly regulated CCTV systems offer evidential benefits across the sector. The company also outlines how the Government’s Devolution Bill could shape a more consistent national framework, and what minimum safeguards should apply if mandatory installation is not pursued.
There’s lots of discussion around taxi and private hire National Standards, with mandatory CCTV at the heart of many debates. Should CCTV be mandatory nationwide?
This is a complex topic, and we believe it is important to remain transparent and balanced. Based on direct feedback from our customers, fleet operators, drivers, and passengers, CCTV has proven to solve a wide range of issues across the sector.
Mandating CCTV supports not only operators and vehicle proprietors but also councils, many of which are experiencing increasing challenges with cross-border working that impacts local drivers and enforcement.
CCTV systems also empower drivers. There is a common misconception that when CCTV is mandated by councils, authorities have remote access and can monitor drivers at any time. This is simply untrue. Properly designed policy-led systems, such as those implemented under the Welsh nationwide policy — where we assisted in providing technical guidance — are built to prioritise safety for both drivers and passengers while ensuring strict data protection.
Cost is often raised as a concern when discussing mandatory CCTV. However, it is important to consider the potential savings through reduced insurance premiums, fewer disputes, and lower legal costs. When viewed in this context, CCTV becomes a protective investment rather than simply an expense.
In summary, we believe CCTV should be mandated nationally, as it already is across much of the public transport sector. When implemented correctly, it provides meaningful safety, accountability, and protection for drivers, passengers, operators, and the wider public, helping to make the UK’s transport network safer for everyone.
How can the Devolution Bill play a part when it comes to discussions around CCTV?
The Devolution bill can set a national standard for CCTV standards which need to be upheld by operators and vehicle proprietors, the conversation and consideration will help councils across the UK adhere to a set standard where everyone is then treated fairly and equally, and consumers are provided with security solutions which they can trust. The policy would impact assist all elements of the taxi trade in having a uniform understanding of their expectations and open the door to them being protected nationally. Allowing for drivers, operators or even vehicle rental companies to have a smoother transition into working in a different region. National standards help elevate the entire sector.
If the Government chooses not to go down the mandatory route, what should be the minimum standards for taxis operating CCTV?
The cost/benefit of having CCTV is so compelling for a taxi driver that there shouldn’t be the need to make it mandatory. Thus, regulations should focus on setting standards that adequately ensure people’s privacy rights. Any public recordings must be protected and only accessed by duly authorised personnel under strict conditions. The current regulatory framework should provide such assurance.
What are the benefits of having CCTV onboard, and can you provide any working examples?
An obvious benefit of a CCTV system is the ability to demonstrate almost immediately and unequivocally responsibilities in case of any incident or accident. By avoiding unnecessary dispute, considerable costs and time can be saved.
CCTV also plays a vital role in protecting drivers from false allegations, providing reliable evidence that can quickly confirm events and protect livelihoods. In addition, CCTV acts as a strong deterrent against anti-social behaviour. Drivers frequently report that clearly displayed signage and visible systems encourage passengers to behave more respectfully, reducing incidents of abuse and conflict.
What would you say to cabbies concerned about privacy and data capture?
Footage is only accessible to authorised data controllers who are ICO-compliant and trained in responsible data handling. Typically, footage is stored securely on the system for around 28 days and can only be accessed through controlled retrieval processes. Where cloud-based solutions are used, these systems are designed to provide fleet operators with secure oversight while maintaining data integrity and compliance with GDPR requirements.
