New Taxi Laws Proposed To Move Wales On ‘From Days Of Horse Drawn Hackneys’

A consultation is underway over plans to modernise the legal framework for licensing taxis and private hire vehicles in Wales.

As part of the new devolved settlement for Wales to be introduced through the Wales Act 2017, the regulation of taxis and private hire vehicles will become a matter within the legislative competence of the National Assembly for Wales.

Ken Skates AM in the foreword to the consultation says: “Taxis and private hire vehicles are an important method of transport in enabling disabled vulnerable people in our society to maintain independent living in the community. Travel by taxis and private hire vehicle is simply the only transport option for many people. Despite the importance of this sector to our public transport ambitions, the industry remains governed by laws made when the horse drawn hackneys were a common feature on our streets. Put simply, the law is complicated, outdated and is in need of reform.

“The commencement of certain provisions in the Wales Act 2017 will for the first time bring the licensing regime for taxis and private hire vehicles within the legislative competence of the National Assembly for Wales.

The overview of the main proposals are:

• the introduction of national standards for all taxis and private hire vehicles
• tougher penalties on touting, including impounding vehicles
• bring pedi-cabs and novelty vehicles, including stretch limousines, within the scope of taxi and private hire regulation
• retain the ability of local licensing authorities to limit the number of taxis working in their area.

People are being asked to take part in the consultation, with various questions being asked such as if you think taxi drivers should keep ‘accurate records’ or not.

The full consultation document can be found on this PDF, and you can respond online via this form.