Local Government Minister to Face MPs as Taxi and PHV Licensing Inquiry Nears Conclusion

The Minister for Local Government is due to appear before MPs tomorrow as the Commons Transport Committee concludes its evidence sessions for an inquiry into the licensing of taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs).

The inquiry is examining how standards for taxis and PHVs could be strengthened, amid growing concern about inconsistent and, in some cases, inadequate regulation across different parts of the country.

Current legislation governing taxi and PHV licensing is largely based on laws dating back to 1847 and 1976. During the session, MPs are expected to question whether there is political appetite for updating or replacing this framework to ensure it reflects the realities of modern transport services.

In November 2025, the Department for Transport announced plans to introduce National Minimum Standards to establish a baseline for taxi and PHV licensing. The Minister is likely to be asked about the proposed scope of these standards and the areas they will cover. Given the wide variation in local licensing approaches highlighted throughout the inquiry, MPs are also expected to press for clarity on why a single, uniform set of mandatory standards has not been proposed, and what enforcement mechanisms would accompany the new framework.

Licensing fees and accountability will also be key topics. Fees are currently set by individual licensing authorities, and the Department has previously consulted on transferring responsibility for taxi and PHV licensing to Local Transport Authorities. MPs are likely to seek further explanation of the objectives behind this potential shift.

Latest Department for Transport figures show a continued rise in PHV licensing, with a 10.5% increase bringing the total number of PHV licences to 256,600 in 2024. Over the same period, the number of taxi licences fell by 1.4% to 56,400.

Committee members may also explore whether app-based platforms and traditional operators are being regulated on a level playing field, what steps could be taken to improve drivers’ working conditions, and how accessibility across the taxi and PHV fleet can be enhanced.

The session will be broadcast live from 09:15 tomorrow and can be watched online.