Unions call for TfL Action Plan to place cap on private hire vehicle numbers as driver earnings plummet
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The GMB Union, IWGB and ADCU criticised TfL during a City Hall meeting on Thursday 15 May, accusing the transport authority of failing to place industry sustainability at the centre of its Taxi and Private Hire Action Plan.
According to GMB, more than half of app-based drivers reported significantly lower earnings in 2024, with over 80 per cent saying their income had remained flat or dropped further since 2023. The union argues that the rising number of licensed PHVs is worsening the situation, pushing down wages and increasing pressure on drivers.
Steve Garelick, GMB Regional Organiser, warned that continued growth in PHV numbers is putting strain on both drivers and the wider transport network.
GMB is urging TfL to introduce measures that protect driver income and safety. Central to its proposal is a limit on the number of PHVs licensed in London to bring the industry into balance and support a fairer environment for drivers.
GMB also pointed to action taken in other regions, such as Manchester and North Yorkshire, where local mayors have started discussions on managing PHV growth. The union says London risks being left behind unless TfL takes similar steps to address the issue.
Steve Garelick, GMB Regional Organiser, said: “Further saturation of the private hire market is unsustainable; it will continue to have a negative impact on drivers and competition.Â
“GMB is calling on TfL to deliver a more sustainable industry for both drivers and operators – one where drivers are not forced to work longer hours just to earn a liveable income, and where their safety is not put at risk in the process."
Full in-depth report on all topics discussed by the private hire vehicle panel will appear on TaxiPoint tomorrow.
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