Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what priority the Government attaches to passenger safeguarding in the licensed taxi and private hire vehicle trade; and if he will make a statement.

The Government attaches a high priority to passenger safety in the licenced taxi and private hire vehicle trade. The legislation that provides for the licensing of private hire vehicle services aims to safeguard passengers by ensuring that drivers and vehicles that are fit for purpose. This legislation allows local licensing authorities the discretion to set standards they deem appropriate for their area. To help with this, the Department has issued best practice guidance.