Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment he has made of the effect of the covid-19 outbreak on taxis and private hire drivers; and what steps his Department is taking to support that sector.

The Department is aware of the issues being faced by the taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) sector and are working with the industry to understand the particular pressures they are facing. The Self-employment Income Support Scheme will allow taxi and PHV drivers to claim a taxable grant worth 80% of their trading profits up to a maximum of £2,500 per month for the 3-month period from April to June. This may be extended if needed.

More information on the scheme is available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/claim-a-grant-through-the-coronavirus-covid-19-self-employment-income-support-scheme.