HC Deb 27 July 1984 vol 64 c822W
Dr. Glyn

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what guidance he issues to local authorities for the licensing of local taxis and hire car firms; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Chalker

The Home Office, which was at the time responsible for these matters, issued in 1974 a series of model bylaws for the guidance of local authorities which licence taxis under the Town Police Clauses Act 1847.

Private hire cars are licensed only by districts which have adopted part II of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 or in a few cases under local Acts. Neither the Home Office nor the Department of Transport has issued any guidance on the licensing of private hire cars. The Association of District Councils has, however, issued model guidelines for its members.

Dr. Glyn

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list his powers regarding the enactment of byelaws by local authorities regulating taxis and hire car firms; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Chalker

Outside London taxis may be licensed by local authorities under the provisions of the Town Police Clauses Act 1847. These provisions contain certain powers to make regulations by byelaw, which are confirmed by the Secretary of State under the powers conferred by section 236 of the Local Government Act 1972. The Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 extends and modifies the controls under the 1847 Act and permits the regulations of taxi fares and stands by council resolution. Private hire cars may also be licensed under this Act. The Secretary of State has no powers under the 1976 Act.

In London, taxis are licensed by the Assistant Commissioner of the Metropolitan police.