§ Mr. EffordTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when the system of licensing provided for in the Private Hire Vehicles (London) Act 1998 will be implemented. [140884]
§ Mr. HillI have today laid before the House the Private Hire Vehicles (London) (Operators' Licences) Regulations 2000 and associated commencement orders. These regulations will provide for the Public Carriage Office to start processing applications for minicab operator licences from 22 January next year and will oblige operators to comply with statutory requirements by 22 October next year.
The licensing of minicab operators in London will bring important benefits to London's travelling public. The operators are the hub of the minicab trade; they fulfil a key role in influencing the overall standard of service, and I am sure that they will use their licensed status to ensure that passengers in London receive a safe and efficient service.
The licensing of drivers and vehicles will follow as soon as practicable. Transport for London will be responsible for making the necessary regulations.