THREE POINTS AND YOU’RE OUT: TfL and taxi reps set to meet after concerns around driver policy

Transport for London (TfL) reportedly agree to meet the taxi industry to discuss changes around the 'three points and you’re out' driver policy currently in place.

The London Cab Drivers Club (LCDC) revealed the contents of an email reportedly sent by a spokesperson from TfL suggesting there may be changes ahead.

The communication outlines TfL's intentions to revisit the Taxi and Private Hire (TPH) Driver Policy, sparking discussions within the industry about the balance between professional standards and fairness in licensing practices.

The email, reportedly sent to the LCDC and other taxi trade representatives, highlights TfL agreeing to engage with stakeholders to refine its driver policy. Acknowledging the challenges and concerns voiced by drivers through various channels—including news articles like TaxiPoint, social media, and direct communications—the TfL spokesperson commits to ensuring that the revised policy not only upholds public safety but is also fair and proportionate to the drivers.

TfL have purposed an online meeting with trade representatives next week.

The discussions will focus on the current TfL Driver Policy, where even a minor offence leading to a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) and a mere three-point penalty could have severe repercussions for taxi drivers.

According to the message shared, TfL have implemented interim process changes. These adjustments ensure that cases where a driver accumulates three points on their licence for a driving offence are now escalated to a senior manager for a thorough review before any licensing decision is finalised. This measure, intended as a temporary solution, aims to introduce an additional layer of scrutiny to the licensing process, offering drivers a fairer assessment based on the specifics of their situation.

A Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA) spokesperson said: “An email has just gone out to all members with an update on the 3 points and you are out policy. TfL have agreed to reconsider some aspects of the Driver Policy regarding 3 points!”

A LCDC spokesperson said: “Hopefully TfL are listening to legitimate concerns raised by ALL orgs/unions, drivers, GLA members. We will inform trade if, as and when any potential changes are made.”