§ Mr. BendallTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement about London taxi fares and fees. [27293]
§ Mr. NorrisThe Secretary of State has made an order increasing London taxi fares by about 4.59 per cent. on average with effect from Saturday 27 April 1996. The new tariff will incorporate a minimum charge of £1.40—including a hire charge of £1—for the first 513 m—561.22 yds—or 111 seconds. The rate will then be 20p for every 256.5 m—280.61 yds— or 55.5 seconds up to six miles and 20p for each 171 m—187.07 yds—or 37 seconds thereafter. The charge for each additional passenger will be 40p.
The Secretary of State has decided that there will be no increase this year in the fees for London taxi driver and vehicle licences, currently £87 and £78 respectively.