Peers back shift to national standards for taxi licensing

A government amendment to the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill has tightened the language around taxi regulation in England, replacing “minimum standards” with stronger “national standards” in a move aimed at improving consistency and passenger safety.

The change, known as Amendment 266, was introduced during a House of Lords debate on 13 April and forms part of a wider package of reforms to taxi and private hire licensing. While the amendment alters only a single word in the legislation, ministers argued it carries important implications for how rules will be interpreted and enforced across the country.

Under the revised wording, the government will set national standards for taxi and private hire licensing authorities in England. Previously, describing these as “minimum standards” suggested a basic regulatory floor, leaving greater emphasis on local authorities to build upon it. By contrast, “national standards” signals a more comprehensive and authoritative framework.

Transport minister Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill told peers the change was intended to ensure the standards are not perceived as weak or optional. He said the goal is to create a consistent baseline that passengers can rely on, regardless of where they travel, while still allowing local councils to impose additional requirements where appropriate.

The amendment comes amid longstanding concerns about inconsistencies between licensing regimes in different areas, particularly the issue of drivers operating outside the district in which they are licensed. Campaigners and some local authorities have argued that uneven standards can undermine passenger safety and create enforcement challenges.

By reframing the standards as national rather than minimal, the government aims to reinforce expectations around driver vetting, vehicle safety, and accessibility. However, the bill stops short of fully centralising the system, preserving a role for local authorities in tailoring rules to local conditions.

Amendment 266 is one of several changes debated as part of a broader effort to modernise taxi and private hire regulation within England’s evolving devolution framework. Further amendments are expected to clarify enforcement powers and improve coordination between licensing authorities.

The bill continues its passage through Parliament.