According to the Department for Transport statistics, there are around 69,000 taxis licensed in England in 2007, an increase of 8 per cent since 2005 (including 8000 licensed vehicles in Wales alone). Over 264,000 individuals hold drivers licences issued by over 350 local licensing authorities in England and Wales.
The licensing of hackney carriages in particular dates back to 1847, and that for private hire vehicles to 1976. Seventeen principal Acts of Parliament, eight statutory instruments, and over 150 court decisions regulate these activities.
As the national organisation for licensing practitioners, the Institute of Licensing is initiating a major campaign for reform of this legislation to apply outside London, to make it fit for purpose for the 21st century.
There are many reasons for embarking on this exercise, principally:
Working with key industry stakeholders, we hope to have our final proposals for taxi licensing law reform for the 21st century by the end of 2008. In the meantime, we would greatly appreciate your help in identifying specific examples of where the current legislation is inadequate, or lacks applicability. If you are able to contribute, please complete the form below.
If you would like more information about our campaign, please contact our Executive Officer, Sue Towler on 01276 75456 or you can email her.