Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 6 July 2020 to Question 67659 on Taxis: Coronavirus, what plans he has to review the rules on making face coverings in taxis compulsory, following updated guidance on compulsory face coverings in shops from 24 July 2020.

The Government has published safer transport guidance on the safe provision of transport services during the coronavirus pandemic. The guidance to passengers says that passengers should wear a face covering when using taxis or private hire vehicles. Taxi drivers are able to refuse carriage to passengers where it is reasonable to do so, and private hire vehicle operators can make wearing a face covering a condition of hiring. We are aware of private hire vehicle operators that are doing this and requiring the driver they work with to do the same. We are continually reviewing the guidance for safer transport in line with scientific advice.