Transport Committee Inquiry | Licensing of taxis and private hire vehicles

FOR COMMENT & POSTING

The Transport Committee is currently accepting evidence, until Monday 8^th September, in their inquiry into Licensing reform of Taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs).

The aim of the inquiry is to examine whether the current licensing framework provides authorities with the tools they need to successfully regulate the sector. The Committee states they will consider the implications of uneven rules between areas, the growing role of digital ride-hailing platforms, and the challenges that can arise from cross-border working.

It will also explore what reforms may be needed to improve standards for passengers and drivers which was also the subject of a recent announcement on behalf of the Department for Transport

Specifically, the inquiry is seeking evidence in respect of the following issues:

1. Do current licensing arrangements and tools enable local authorities to effectively regulate and oversee the taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) sector across England, in terms of safety, accessibility and quality of service? If not, what improvements could be made?
2. What is the impact on the travelling public and drivers of variation between licensing authorities? Is reform needed to bring greater standardisation?
3. What would be the practical implications for licensing authorities and operators of more stringent or standardised licensing conditions in respect of safety, accessibility, vehicles and driver conduct?
4. What steps should the Government take to address the challenges posed by cross-border licensing in the taxi and PHV sector?
5. What would effective reform look like in terms of enforcement, passenger safety and safeguarding, and regulatory consistency? Is there a role for regional transport authorities?
6. How are digital ride-hailing platforms impacting standards in the sector, and is further regulation in this area required?
7. How effective, accessible, and trusted are complaints and incident reporting systems in the taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) sector, for both passengers and drivers?
8. How effective is the National Register for Revocations, Refusals and Suspensions (NR3S). in supporting consistent licensing decisions across local authorities? What barriers, if any, are limiting its use or impact?
9. What are the implications for taxi and PHV licensing of the future rollout of autonomous vehicles?