London’s iconic black cab drivers are facing significant challenges as ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt expand their presence. The Transport for London (TfL) has been urged to take action against the rising tide of private hire vehicles that threaten their livelihoods.
Decline of Black Cab Drivers in London
The London Assembly Transport Committee, led by Labour Assembly Member Elly Baker, has highlighted a worrying trend. Over the past decade, the number of licensed taxi drivers in London has dropped from 22,810 in 2014 to just 14,800 in 2024. Concurrently, the number of private hire drivers has surged, now exceeding 106,000.
The increase in ride-hailing services has created intense competition for fares among drivers. This has forced many black cab drivers to extend their working hours, raising concerns about passenger and driver safety.
Government’s Inaction
In a recent letter to the Transport Secretary, Ms. Baker emphasized the necessity for a cap on private hire licenses. She argued that the ongoing influx of private hire vehicles—many licensed outside London—has led to increased congestion and reduced earnings for drivers.
- 10,000 fewer taxi drivers in the last decade.
- 106,000 private hire drivers in London.
- Taxi numbers fell from 22,810 in 2014 to 14,800 in 2024.
According to Baker, the current situation is untenable, stating, “There are too many private hire vehicles doing too few trips.” She urged the government to act without delay.
Financial Strain on Black Cab Drivers
Moreover, black cab drivers face higher vehicle costs compared to their private hire counterparts. In the past eight years, the cost of entering the taxi industry has increased by £23,000, with the lowest-priced taxi vehicle now costing around £70,000.
This economic strain has led to recommendations from the Committee, including extending the £7,500 plug-in taxi grant for low-emission vehicles and exempting taxis from VAT by year-end. Ms. Baker has called for a more proactive approach to support black cab drivers amid these rising costs.
Voices from the Industry
Trevor Merralls, General Secretary of the United Cabbies Group (UCG), expressed disappointment with the government’s proposals. He noted that the focus was predominantly on private hire operators, neglecting key issues facing taxi drivers, such as access rights for picking up disabled passengers.
Merralls stated, “The law hasn’t kept pace with technology,” emphasizing that while both services coexist, regulations must adapt to ensure fair competition.
Future of London’s Taxi Services
The situation calls for immediate regulatory interventions to protect London’s taxi industry. The TfL has acknowledged the issues and is preparing to respond to the Transport Committee’s recommendations. TfL’s Director of Licensing, Helen Chapman, stated that they are committed to ensuring a safe, accessible, and sustainable transport network.
As the competition heats up, only time will tell how London’s iconic taxi services will adapt to this rapidly changing landscape.
