Business of the House

Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi Excerpts

Thursday 5th February 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The right hon. Gentleman is absolutely right: the delays are unacceptable. It is not the service that people deserve, and resolving these matters is a matter of urgency. I understand that there was a debate on these matters yesterday, but I am sure there will be applications and questions as we go forward. The Cabinet Office is working hard to resolve the situation, and has put in place an expert recovery team to work with Capita and make sure things are in place to address such concerns. This issue is of concern not just to his constituents, but to other Members’ constituents too.

[Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi (Slough) (Lab)]

Many of my constituents face lengthy delays in securing their Transport for London private hire licences, with some complaining about delays of up to 18 months and unclear communication. Many of their concerns are simply being ignored. As the Leader of the House will be aware, our private hire drivers rely on those licences for their household livelihoods, helping to put food on the table and to pay their bills. Will he raise this matter with Ministers and ask them to engage with TfL, so that resources are made available and the unacceptable delays are finally addressed?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend for raising this important point. I agree that these are important matters for drivers themselves and for their families’ wellbeing, and taxi drivers also provide a very important service to our constituents, so these matters need to be resolved. I will draw this issue to the attention of the relevant Minister and get my hon. Friend an update on what can be done to resolve the situation.