Reforming the Law of Taxi and Private Hire Services - A Consultation Paper

Consultation Paper 203

Author:

Law Commission

Publisher:

TSO (The Stationery Office)

Price: £38.50

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'Reforming the Law of Taxi and Private Hire Services - A Consultation Paper (Consultation Paper 203)' presents the Law Commission's provisional proposals for reform of the legal framework relating to Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles.

Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles (PHVs) are an important part of local transport. They operate in highly regulated markets where safety and quality control are paramount.

Licensing covers key areas such as:

• quality of services;

• the fitness of drivers;

• fare regulation; and

• restrictions on the number of licenses issued.

The current law on taxis and PHVs has been criticised for being complex and outdated. These proposals retain the important distinction between taxis - which can "ply for hire" on the street or a cab rank - and private hire vehicles which can only be pre-booked. But all vehicles would be subject to national minimum safety standards and, for private hire vehicles, these would replace more than 340 sets of local regulations.

The proposed reforms would reduce the burden on business as private hire firms would be free to work across the country without geographical restrictions. This would contribute to widening consumer choice and to making services cheaper and more competitive.

The Commission also makes suggestions covering a wide range of issues, including improving provision for persons with disabilities, quantity restrictions and enforcement.

Extent	241 pages	ISBN	9780118405270
Size	A4	Price	£38.50
Format	Paperback	Published	10 May 2012
Availability	Colour copy: 3 - 5 days	Delivery	Delivery options and charges