Government reaffirms local authority role in taxi driver checks amid calls for centralised data

The Department for Transport has reaffirmed its current approach to taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) licensing, following a parliamentary question from Rupert Lowe MP (Independent, Great Yarmouth) on the potential merits of centralising data collection on drivers’ immigration status and criminal history.

In a written response, Parliamentary Under-Secretary Simon Lightwood confirmed that existing legislation already places clear duties on local licensing authorities:

• Under the Immigration Act 2016, licensing authorities are prohibited from issuing licences to individuals who are disqualified due to their immigration status. This includes:

  • Individuals in the UK illegally

  • Those not permitted to work

  • Those permitted to work but subject to conditions that prohibit holding a taxi or PHV licence

• These checks are conducted in addition to the standard ‘fit and proper’ test required for all applicants.

While the question raised the possibility of introducing legislation or guidance to centralise data collection, the Government’s response did not indicate any plans to shift responsibility away from local authorities. Instead, it emphasised the sufficiency of current checks and the importance of local decision-making.