Taxi Fare Review 2018 Consultation Report · an increase in taxi fares if diesel prices rise by a...

Taxi Fare Review 2018

Consultation Report

September 2018

2

Contents

Executive summary ..................................................................................................... 3

1. About the proposals ............................................................................................ 4

2. About the consultation ...................................................................................... 12

3. About the respondents ...................................................................................... 16

4. Summary of all consultation responses ............................................................ 22

5. Next steps ......................................................................................................... 69

Appendix A: Detailed analysis of comments ............................................................. 70

Appendix B: Consultation questions .......................................................................... 84

Appendix C: Stakeholders consulted......................................................................... 93

Appendix D Consultation Material ............................................................................. 96

3

Executive summary

This document explains the processes, responses and next steps of the consultation

on taxi fares and tariffs.

Between 20 March and 27 April 2018 we consulted on proposed changes to taxi

fares and tariffs and received 1,315 responses.

The majority of respondents and the majority of taxi drivers agreed that Tariff 1 and

Tariff 2 should be increased by 0.6 per cent and that Tariff 3 and the Tariff rate for

journeys over six miles should stay the same. The majority also agreed that the

minimum fare should be increased, with a 40 pence increase preferred over 20

pence.

Most respondents supported adding card payment transaction charges to the Cost

Index and did not agree with removing the social costs element.

A strong majority of respondents were in favour of continuing the provision to allow

an increase in taxi fares if diesel prices rise by a significant amount.

Support was lower for an increase to the Heathrow Extra charge, with only a third of

respondents and taxi drivers supporting this. Support was higher (55%) among taxi

drivers who use the ranks at Heathrow Airport.

Four in ten respondents supported a fixed fare from Heathrow Airport to Central

London, with half in support going from Central London to Heathrow Airport. Support

for capped fares was at a similar level.

There was strong support for updating the card payment device requirements to

include American Express.

Next steps

We are now reviewing comments made during the consultation..

Recommended changes to the taxi fares and tariffs will be submitted to TfL’s

Finance Committee for consideration and we will publish the details of any changes

made.

4

1. About the proposals

1.1 Introduction

Taxi and private hire services in London are licensed and regulated by Transport for

London (TfL). The Licensing, Regulation and Charging Directorate has day to day

responsibility for the delivery of taxi and private hire licensing services.

We license London taxis (black cabs/Hackney Carriages) and taxi drivers under

Hackney Carriage legislation including the Metropolitan Public Carriage Act 1869.

Section 9 of this Act allows us to make regulations which fix the rates or fares to be

paid for taxis. The London Cab and Stage Carriage Act 1907 allows us to make

regulations to fix the fares to be paid for the hire of taxis fitted with taximeters, on the

basis of time or distance or both. The London Cab Order 1934 (as amended) is the

main set of regulations made under these Acts and it sets the fares regime that

covers most taxi journeys in London.

Taxi fares are calculated using a taximeter and the meter shows the maximum fare

that can be charged at the end of a journey. The fare is based upon the time of day,

distance travelled and time taken. Once a journey reaches six miles a different tariff

rate applies.

The fares are normally reviewed on an annual basis and this consultation is for the

2018 review.

1.2 Purpose

The purpose of the 2018 consultation was to seek views on the following;

Changes to taxi fares and tariffs in London

Changes to extra charges for some taxi journeys

Changes to the Cost Index

Updating the card payment requirements

Fixed fare, capped fare and shared taxi scheme arrangements

TfL licenses and regulates taxi (black cab) and private hire services in London. We

also regulate taxi fares and set the maximum fares that can be charged. These fares

are determined by tariffs that are normally reviewed each year and updated to reflect

changes in a Cost Index.

5

Cost Index

The Cost Index tracks changes to the costs for a number of elements related to

being a taxi driver in London (including vehicle costs, parts, tyres, servicing, fuel,

insurance and social costs) plus changes to average national earnings. These

figures are updated as part of the review of taxi fares and tariffs to give a total figure

for the change in costs and average national earnings. For the 2017 review this total

figure was 2.8 per cent. For this review the Cost Index figure is 3.6 per cent.

However, it is important to note that the Cost Index and the total figure produced

when this is updated are independent of the taxi fares and tariffs. There is no

statutory requirement for the Cost Index figure to be applied equally to all tariff rates.

Any changes to the tariffs can be based on the Cost Index or on other factors. Last

year’s review is an example of a different approach being taken. The total Cost Index

figure for the costs of operating a taxi in London and national average earnings was

2.8 per cent. However, instead of increasing all of the tariff rates by this figure only

Tariffs 1 and 2 were increased.

Following a public consultation the TfL Board approved increasing Tariffs 1 and 2 by

3.7 per cent and 3.9 per cent respectively, both of which were higher than the Cost

Index figure (2.8 per cent). However, this was offset by Tariff 3 and the tariff rate for

journeys over six miles being frozen to address concerns raised by passengers and

taxi drivers about late night and longer taxi journeys being too expensive

2017 changes

In summary, the changes introduced in 2017 were:

• Increased average fares during Tariff 1 by 3.7 per cent

• Increased average fares during Tariff 2 by 3.9 per cent

• Extended the fuel charge arrangements in the event of a significant increase or decrease in the price of diesel

• Updated the taximeter specification

In 2017 we also:

• Froze Tariff 3

• Froze the tariff rate for journeys over six miles (Tariff 4)

• Froze the minimum fare

All of the tariff changes came into effect on Saturday 3 June 2017 following approval

by the TfL Board on 29 March 2017.

6

1.3 Detailed description

Potential changes for 2018/19

We wanted views on the following proposals:

Whether the minimum fare of £2.60 should be increased and if so by how

much

Whether Tariff 1 and Tariff 2 should be increased

Whether Tariff 3 should be frozen

Whether the tariff rate for journeys over six miles (Tariff 4) should be changed

Removing the social costs element from the Cost Index

Adding transaction costs for card payment devices to the Cost Index – this

would be in addition to the 20 pence minimum fare increase introduced in

April 2016

Continuing the present arrangement that allows taxi drivers to add an extra

charge of 40 pence to the fare if fuel prices increase significantly and reduce

fares by 40 pence if fuel prices fall significantly

Whether there should be an increase to the additional charge for taxi journeys

that start from a taxi rank at Heathrow Airport and, if so, by how much

Reviewing options for fixed or capped fares to or from Heathrow Airport

Increasing by 50 pence the fares for the fixed fare, shared taxi schemes that

operate from Euston Station

Adding fares for six passengers sharing a taxi to the shared taxi conversion

table

Updating the card payment device requirements for taxis so that all devices

accept American Express as well as Visa and MasterCard

Taxi tariff rates and minimum fare

When taxi fares and tariffs have been previously reviewed, the outcome has often

been to apply any change shown by the Cost Index to all tariff rates. This has

generally meant an annual increase to all tariff rates and taxi fares.

Recent exceptions to this are in 2015 when the Cost Index showed fares should be

decreased by 0.1 per cent and this change was deferred to the following year. Also,

last year, when Tariffs 1 and 2 were increased by more than the Cost Index figure

but offset by a freeze to Tariff 3 and the tariff rate for journeys over six miles (Tariff

4).

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The general pattern of year on year increases has resulted in feedback that taxi

fares are too high, especially late at night (Tariff 3) and for journeys over six miles

(Tariff 4). It has been suggested that high fares late at night have affected the

public’s perception of taxi fares at all times, making them less likely to use taxis at

any time of the day as they believe the fare will be excessively high.

If we applied the Cost Index figure to all tariff rates, this would mean an increase of

3.6 per cent across all of the tariffs. While we appreciate the costs of operating a taxi

in London have increased, we also need to consider the passenger impact of the

increase, in addition to the perception that taxi fares are expensive and becoming

unaffordable.

Discussions have been held with the taxi driver associations, who wish to ensure taxi

drivers are adequately recompensed. However, any proposals must also focus on

providing passengers with an assurance that taxi fares are not too expensive.

With this in mind, we invited comments on the following:

A potential increase to the minimum fare (flagfall)

A potential increase to Tariffs 1 and 2. It had been suggested that an increase

could be set at 0.6 per cent.

A potential freeze in Tariff 3 fares (for the second year running)

A potential freeze to the tariff rate for journeys over six miles (for the second

year running) or whether any changes to this tariff rate should be made

We had been asked by the taxi driver associations to increase Tariffs 1 and 2, but to

make no changes to the other tariff rates. The taxi driver associations had also

expressed a view that the minimum fare (flagfall) could be increased by 40 pence.

The minimum taxi fare in London is currently £2.60, which is lower than in some

other parts of the UK. Increasing the minimum fare by 40 pence, as requested by the

taxi driver associations, would make it £3.00 at all times.

A small increase to Tariffs 1 and 2, alongside an uplift in the minimum fare, and a

freeze in the other tariff rates, would support taxi drivers facing increased costs of

operating a taxi in London.

Tariff rate for longer journeys

The tariff rate for longer journeys (sometimes referred to as Tariff 4) is higher than

Tariffs 1 and 2 but lower than Tariff 3. The historical reason for there being a

different tariff rate for longer journeys is because drivers completing these journeys

may be less likely to be hailed on the return journey to the area where they normally

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work. This may be less of an issue now as some drivers will be offered fares from a

taxi company during their return journey.

It had been suggested that taxi fares for longer journeys are too high and these are

only a small part of the overall taxi market which is not growing or attracting new

passengers.

We have previously consulted on changing the distance when this tariff rate starts

and were interested in views on the tariff rate for longer journeys and if any changes

to this should be made. Potential changes could include:

Changing the distance when this tariff comes into effect from six miles to a

longer distance

Reducing the rate charged

Reducing the times when this tariff rate applies

Removing this separate tariff rate

Social costs element of the Cost Index

The Cost Index contains a number of different elements, one of which is social costs.

The social costs element relates to the unsociable hours worked by some taxi

drivers. The current Cost Index shows that the social cost element would contribute

0.1 per cent to the total figure.

Not all taxi drivers work unsociable hours and the different tariff rates are designed

so that drivers who do work unsociable hours can potentially earn more as the tariff

rate is higher – Tariff 3 applies to taxi journeys undertaken between 22:00 and 05:00

every night and this is the highest tariff rate.

Last year, we proposed removing the social costs element from the Cost Index. This

change was not taken forward. However, this is still an option and we sought views

on this.

Adding costs for card payment transaction charges to the Cost Index

Since October 2016, all taxi drivers have been required to accept card payments and

all taxis must now be fitted with a fully working TfL-approved card payment device in

the correct position in the passenger compartment. Enabling passengers to pay by

card in all taxis has generally been well received by taxi drivers and passengers.

There are transaction charges when taxi drivers accept card payments and these

can vary depending upon the type of card payment device used and the agreement

the driver has with the company who provides the device. The transaction charges

are typically between two and four per cent but can also include additional charges.

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We reviewed whether transaction charges should be included in the Cost Index.

Including these in the Cost Index would mean that if transaction charges increase,

then taxi fares would also increase and passengers would pay more.

In April 2016, we increased the minimum fare by 20 pence for all taxi journeys. This

increase was intended to help drivers cover the costs of accepting card payments. If

transaction costs were to be included in the Cost Index, this would mean that there

were two increases to the fares for all passengers (regardless of whether they pay

by card) – the minimum fare increase plus any increase as a result of changes to the

Cost Index.

We sought views on transaction charges when paying by card for a taxi and if these

charges should be included in the Cost Index.

Diesel price changes

Diesel prices can vary rapidly and unpredictably, and a high increase during the year

would result in additional costs for drivers which they would not be able to recover

from passengers. Since July 2008, special provisions have been in place to allow an

extra charge of 40 pence to be added to each taxi fare if the cost of diesel rises

significantly.

The extra charge would be authorised if diesel prices reach a threshold level. The

threshold represents the price at which the overall increase in taxi costs would be in

proportion to the increase in the average fare, represented by the diesel charge.

We proposed to continue this arrangement, setting an appropriate threshold for

diesel prices which, if met, would trigger the approval of an extra charge of 40 pence

being added to taxi fares. The threshold depends on the level of the general fares

increase and the diesel price used in the calculation of the fare increase.

A provision has also been introduced where fares would be reduced by 40 pence if

diesel prices fell significantly.

We sought views on extending the arrangements in the event of a significant

increase or decrease in the price of diesel.

Heathrow Airport extra charge

Taxi drivers picking up passengers from the taxi ranks at Heathrow Airport must pay

a fee to access the taxi ranks. To compensate drivers for this they can add an extra

charge on to the fare for journeys which start from Heathrow Airport taxi ranks.

The fee drivers must pay is currently £3.50 and the extra charge they can add on to

the fare is £2.80. The taxi driver associations had requested that this is increased

from £2.80 to £3.20 and we sought views on this.

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Fixed fare and capped fare schemes

We are continuing to review options for fixed fare and capped fare schemes to and

from Heathrow Airport. In the past there have been mixed views on these but it is felt

that fixed or capped fares could benefit passengers travelling to or from the airport.

Fixed fares are already available at some airports including in New York, Rome and

Paris.

We wanted views on fixed and capped fares between Heathrow Airport and central

London, if respondents felt that a fixed fare or capped fare scheme should be trialled

and, if so, what the fares should be and which areas should be covered.

Euston Station fixed fares

A number of fixed fare, shared taxi schemes operate from Euston Station. The

schemes match up passengers travelling to similar destinations and the fare each

passenger pays is below the metered fare but the total fare the driver receives is

above the metered fare, meaning that the schemes should be attractive to both

passengers and drivers. The fares were last reviewed and increased in April 2012.

Following a request from the taxi driver associations, there was a potential proposal

to increase each of the fixed fares by 50 pence, and we requested views on this.

Shared taxi conversion table

The shared taxi conversion table can be used to calculate taxi fares when

passengers share a taxi. The table shows the fare each passenger pays and these

are based on the fare on the taximeter and the number of passengers sharing the

taxi. The fare each passenger pays is lower than the metered fare but the total fare

the driver receives is greater than the metered fare, meaning that the arrangement

should be attractive to both passengers and drivers. The shared taxi conversion

table can be used anywhere in London and at any time, although it is not believed to

be widely used.

At present the table only covers five passengers sharing however, many taxis can

carry up to six passengers.

We proposed to add fares for six passengers sharing and welcomed views on the

proposed fares.

Updating the card payment device requirements to include American Express

All taxis must have a TfL-approved card payment device fitted in the passenger

compartment and the device must accept as a minimum Visa and MasterCard.

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All of the approved devices already accept American Express and we proposed to

update the list of cards that approved card payment devices must accept so as this

included American Express as well as Visa and MasterCard.

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2. About the consultation

2.1 Purpose

The objectives of the consultation were:

To give stakeholders and the public easily-understandable information about the proposals and allow them to respond

To understand the level of support or opposition for the proposals

To understand any issues that might affect the proposals of which we were not previously aware

To understand concerns and objections

To allow respondents to make suggestions

2.2 Potential outcomes

The potential outcomes of the consultation were:

Following careful consideration of the consultation responses, we decide to proceed with some or all of the proposals as set out in the consultation

Following careful consideration of the consultation responses, we modify some or all of the proposals in response to issues raised and proceed with slightly revised proposals.

Following careful consideration of the consultation responses, we decide not to proceed with any of the proposals.

Our conclusion and next steps are set out in Chapter 4 and 5.

2.3 Consultation history

Meetings had taken place with taxi driver organisations and taxi booking companies

prior to the consultation to seek their views on taxi fares and tariffs and help develop

proposals for wider consultation.

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2.4 Who we consulted

We sent the consultation to taxi driver associations, taxi booking companies, taxi

drivers, taximeter companies and London wide stakeholders. We also emailed Local

Authorities, London Councils, passenger groups, MPs and GLA members.

2.5 Dates and duration

The consultation was open between 20 March and 27 April 2018.

2.6 What we asked

A full list of questions can be found in Appendix B.

2.7 Methods of responding

Consultees could respond to the consultation via the consultation online portal, email

or by letter using our freepost address.

2.8 Consultation materials and publicity We used a variety of methods to promote the consultation, these are listed below.

2.8.1 Website

The consultation and supporting material was published online

https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/taxis/fares-2018/

2.8.2 Twitter

We used Twitter and the weekly email updates to promote the consultation. We

Tweeted from the @tfltph account on seven different occasions through the

consultation period.

The dates that we tweeted were 20, 25 and 30 March. 3,11, 21, 26 April, A copy of

the tweet can be found in Appendix D.

We also promoted the consultation using the TfL Accessibility Twitter

(twitter.com/TfLAccess) account.

https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/taxis/fares-2018/

https://twitter.com/TfLTPH

https://twitter.com/TfLAccess

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2.8.3 Emails

Over 25,000 emails were sent out to stakeholders and members of the public.

2.8.4 Press and media activity

The consultation appeared in “The Cab Driver” edition on 4 April page 13 requesting

people to participate.

The LTDA ran a survey and the headline results were published in TAXI on 20

March 2018.

2.8.5 Meetings with stakeholders

Several meetings took place with stakeholders during and prior to the consultation

period to discuss the proposals, details of these meetings are below.

20/10/17 Taxi Booking Companies

Computer Cab

Dial a Cab

mytaxi

Gett/Radio Taxis

28/11/17 Taxi Driver Associations

London Cab Drivers Club (LCDC)

Licensed Taxi Drivers Association (LTDA)

RMT

United Cabbied Group (UCG)

Unite the Union

11/04/18 Taxi Driver Associations

LCDC

LTDA

RMT

UCG

Unite

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2.9 Analysis of consultation responses

Due to the number of open questions in this consultation and the predicted number

of responses, analysis of the consultation responses was supported by 2CV

research.

All closed questions were reviewed and the results tabulated and reported.

All open questions, where respondents provided comments were read and analysed

in detail. Each individual comment was attributed to one or more codes according to

the issues raised.

A code frame was developed for each of the open questions, consisting of a series

of themes, which contained detailed comments (or “codes”) capturing the sentiment

of each respondent who left an open text response. During the coding process, each

open text response was analysed and either a new code was created or the

response was added to one or more of the existing codes within the code frame. As

this was an iterative process, some codes were merged as similar themes emerged.

This process created a quantitative value for each code and theme which were used

to rank themes.

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3. About the respondents

This section provides information about the consultation respondents, including how

they heard about the consultation and in what capacity they responded e.g. as a taxi

driver/taxi user/other.

3.1 How respondents heard about the consultation

1,254 out of 1,315 respondents answered this question. The majority heard about

the consultation via an email from TfL, with social media the second most common

source.

How respondents heard Total %

Received an email from TfL 865 66%

Social media 317 24%

Saw it on the TfL website 34 3%

Read about in the press 13 1%

Received a letter from TfL 7 1%

Other 18 1%

Not Answered 61 5%

Total 1,315 100%

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3.2 Respondent type

1,254 out of 1,315 respondents answered this question.

Respondents were asked to state which of the following respondent types best

described them:

A taxi (black cab) driver

A taxi (black cab) user

A Taxicard member

A non-taxi (black cab) user

A private hire/minicab operator

A private hire/minicab driver

A representative of an organisation

Respondent type Total %

A taxi (black cab) driver 1,131 86%

A taxi (black cab) user 81 6%

A non-taxi (black cab) user 42 3%

A private hire/minicab driver 8 1%

A representative of an organisation 7 1%

A Taxicard member 2 0%

A private hire/minicab operator 1 0%

Not Answered 43 3%

Total 1,315 100%

Out of 1,131 taxi drivers, the majority (94%) were All London drivers.

All London or Suburban driver Total %

All London driver 1,059 94%

A Suburban driver 64 6%

Not Answered 8 1%

Total 1,131 100%

Half of all taxi drivers who responded to the consultation had been licensed for over

15 years.

Length of licence Total %

Less than 3 years 96 8%

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3-5 years 122 11%

6-10 years 191 17%

11-15 years 155 14%

16-20 years 178 16%

Over 20 years 386 34%

Not Answered 3 0%

Total 1,131 100%

The majority (79%) of taxi drivers were not on a radio circuit.

Radio circuits Total %

Yes 225 20%

No 890 79%

Not Answered 16 1%

Total 1,131 100%

Two-thirds (65%) of taxi drivers were with a taxi app.

Taxi apps Total %

Yes 740 65%

No 381 34%

Not Answered 10 1%

Total 1,131 100%

One-third (32%) of taxi drivers who were All London Drivers worked from the taxi

ranks at Heathrow Airport.

Heathrow Airport taxi ranks Total %

Yes 341 32%

No 709 67%

Not Answered 9 1%

Total 1,059 100%

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3.3 Respondent demographics

The majority of respondents to this consultation were male (72%) and white ethnicity

(61%). A spread of age groups responded to the consultation.

Gender Total %

Male 952 72%

Female 40 3%

Trans Female 4 0%

Trans Male 6 0%

Gender Neutral 11 1%

Prefer not to say 174 13%

Not Answered 128 10%

Total 1,315 100%

Ethnicity Total %

Net: Asian / Asian British 41 3%

Net: Black / Black British 27 2%

Net: Mixed 27 2%

Net: Other Ethnic Group 22 2%

Net: White 797 61%



Total 1,315 100%

Age Total %

21-25 10 1%

26-30 35 3%

31-35 60 5%

36-40 84 6%

41-45 103 8%

46-50 185 14%

51-55 189 14%

56-60 159 12%

61-65 95 7%

20

66-70 45 3%

71+ 24 2%



Total 1,315 100%

Sexual orientation Total %

Heterosexual 775 59%

Bisexual 11 1%

Gay man 14 1%

Lesbian 8 1%

Other 21 2%



Total 1,315 100%

Religious faith Total %

Buddhist 8 1%

Christian 395 30%

Hindu 2 0%

Muslim 60 5%

Sikh 3 0%

Jewish 40 3%

Other 31 2%

No religion 306 23%



Total 1,315 100%

The day to day activities of over two thirds (69%) of respondents were not limited

because of a health problem or disability which has lasted, or is expected to last over

12 months.

Day-to-day limitations Total %

Yes, limited a lot 12 1%

21

Yes, limited a little 29 2%

No 907 69%



Total 1,315 100%

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4. Summary of all consultation responses

We received 1,315 responses to the consultation. The consultation included 46

questions, 37 of which had a closed response element and 10 of which had an open

response element.

This chapter includes responses to the closed questions and also details the

responses to the 10 open questions.

Code frames, which categorise and quantify responses, have been developed for

each of the 10 open questions. In each of the code frame tables, major themes are

shown in bold, and comments associated with each theme shown below. For each

theme and comment, the number of respondents and share of respondents who

provided these comments is detailed. If a respondent made more than one

comment, they are counted multiple times.

In the report, results are mostly reported on all respondents (all groups), taxi drivers

and users. Users comprises of taxi (black cab) users and Taxicard members. The

base size for Users is less than 100 (83), so results for this group should be treated

with caution due to the lower base size.

Summary tables of the codeframes are provided in this chapter, with full codeframes

provided in Appendix A.

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4.1 Taxi tariff rates and minimum fare

4.1.1 Summary of responses to Question 1: Current taxi tariffs and minimum

fare

We asked respondents to tell us their opinion of the current taxi tariffs for Tariffs 1,2

and 3 and for journeys over six miles (Tariff 4) and the current minimum fare.

The chart below shows that over half of taxi drivers stated that the current Tariff 1,

Tariff 2, and the tariff for journeys over six miles are about right. This increased to

over two-thirds of taxi drivers (73%) for Tariff 2. Over one-third (38%) of taxi drivers

stated that Tariff 1 is too low. The reverse was true for Tariff 3 and Tariff for journeys

over six miles, where just under one-third said they are too expensive.

For the minimum fare, over half (60%) of taxi drivers stated it is too low.

Summary of responses to Question 1: Please let us know what you think of the current taxi tariffs and minimum fare? (All Taxi Drivers)

For users, fewer thought that the tariffs and minimum fares are ‘about right’, with

responses split between ‘much too expensive’ (8%-23%) and ‘much too low (220%-

30%).

3% 5% 8% 3% 3% 4%

26%

30%

17% 7%

10%

34%

57%

73%

58% 55%

36%

2% 5%

19% 18%

2% 1% 1% 11% 10%

1%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Tariff 1 Mondayto Friday,

05:00-20:00(Base n=1,131)


20:00-22:00Saturday and

Sunday, 05:00-22:00

(Base n=1,131)

Tariff 3 Everynight 22:00-05:00 Public

holidays(Base n=1,131)

Tariff forjourneys over

six miles(Base n=1,131)

Minimum fareof £2.60

(Base n=1,131)

Pro

port

ion o

f T

axi D

rivers

Much tooexpensive

A little tooexpensive

About right

A little too low

Much too low

Not Answered /Don't know /No opinion

24

Summary of responses to Question 1: Please let us know what you think of the current taxi tariffs and minimum fare? (All Users)

6% 6% 9% 10% 8%

30% 25% 24% 20% 30%

13% 13% 11%

10%

20%

27% 30%

27% 28%

31% 5% 5%

7% 10%

2% 19% 20% 23% 23%

8%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%


05:00-20:00(Base n=83)



Sunday, 05:00-22:00

(Base n=83)


holidays(Base n=83)


six miles(Base n=83)


(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f U

sers

Much tooexpensive


About right

A little too low

Much too low

Not Answered /Don't know / Noopinion

25

Summary of responses to Question 1: Please let us know what you think of the current taxi tariffs and minimum fare? (All Respondents)

4.1.2 Summary of responses to Question 2: Minimum fare increase

We asked respondents if the minimum fare should be increased from £2.60.

Almost two-thirds (64%) of taxi drivers stated it should be increased, slightly higher

than users (54%). Around half of both drivers and users stated it should increase by

40 pence, with only 12% of drivers and 11% of users selecting the increase should

be 20 pence option.

4% 5% 6% 7% 4%

11% 6% 5% 7%

26%

28%

16% 7%

10%

31%

52%

65%

52% 50%

34%

2% 4%

17% 16%

2% 3% 4% 12% 11%

2%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%


05:00-20:00(Base n=1,315)



Sunday, 05:00-22:00

(Base n=1,315)


holidays(Base n=1,315)


six miles(Base n=1,315)


(Base n=1,315)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Much tooexpensive


About right

A little too low

Much too low

Not Answered /Don't know / Noopinion

26

Summary of responses to Question 2: Should the minimum fare be increased?

4.1.3 Summary of responses to Question 3: Tariff 1 increase of 0.6 per cent

We asked respondents if Tariff 1 should be increased by 0.6 per cent.

Two-thirds (67%) of taxi drivers supported the increase, compared with around half

of users (57%).

6% 1%

8%

33% 34%

37%

51% 52%

43%

12% 12% 11%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

All respondents(Base n=1,315)

Taxi Drivers(Base n=1,131)

Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes by 20 pence

Yes by 40 pence

No it should remain£2.60

Not Answered / NoOpinion / Don't know

27

Summary of responses to Question 3: Should Tariff 1 be increased by 0.6 per cent?

4.1.4 Summary of responses to Question 4: Tariff 2 increase of 0.6 per cent

We asked respondents if Tariff 2 should be increased by 0.6 per cent.

There was less support from both taxi drivers and users to the increase of Tariff 2

compared with Tariff 1. Around half of both groups stated that it should be increased.

Summary of responses to Question 4: Should Tariff 2 be increased by 0.6 per cent?

8% 5% 8%

28% 29%

35%

63% 67% 57%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

All Respondents(Base n=1,315)


Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes

No


9% 5% 8%

40% 41%

45%

52% 54% 47%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%



Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes

No


28

4.1.5 Summary of responses to Question 5: No change to Tariff 3

We proposed not to change Tariff 3 and asked if respondents agreed or disagreed

with this.

While the majority (68%) of taxi drivers agreed it should not change, users were

more likely to say it should be increased (37%).

Summary of responses to Question 5: We are proposing not to change Tariff 3, do you agree or disagree with this?

4.1.6 Summary of responses to Question 6: Changes to the tariff rate for

journeys over six miles

We asked respondents whether any changes should be made to the tariff rate for

journeys over six miles.

Over half (59%) of taxi drivers stated that it should stay the same compared with just

over one-third (37%) of users. The most supported change was to increase the

distance from 6 to 12 miles.

8% 5% 12%

14% 12%

37% 16%

16%

19%

62% 68%

31%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%



Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Agree – no changes should be made

Disagree – it should be decreased

Disagree – it should be increased


29

Summary of responses to Question 6: Should any changes to the tariff rate for journeys over six miles be made?

4.1.7 Summary of responses to Question 7: Other changes to tariff rates or

minimum fare (open question analysis)

Respondents were asked to state whether any other changes should be made to any

of the tariff rates or minimum fare.

The majority of feedback from taxi drivers who responded was around the minimum

fare and tariff rates. Taxi drivers raised suggestions around removing Tariff 3

altogether (14%), while some suggested that the minimum fare should be increased

to £5 (11%). For all other groups in this consultation, the most frequent comments

were around traffic and congestion. Over one third (39%) suggested taxis should pay

the Congestion Charge, with some stating that taxis were partly responsible for

pollution (25%) and congestion (23%)

Summary of responses to Question 7: If you think other changes should be made to any of the tariff rates or minimum fare please provide details of these or any other information to support your answers.

All

respondents Taxi Drivers

All Other Respondents

Base 422 320 102

Count % Count % Count %

Minimum Fare (Net) 89 21% 81 25% 8 8%

Minimum fare should be £5 36 9% 35 11% 1 1%

Minimum fare should be increased 14 3% 11 3% 3 3%



14% 9%

25%

55% 59%

37%

6% 6%

5%

2% 2%

4%

10% 10% 14%

13% 13% 16%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%



Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes the distanceshould increase fromsix miles to 12 miles

Yes the rate should bereduced

Yes the times whenthis tariff rate appliesshould be reduced

Yes this tariff rateshould be removed

No changes should bemade


30

Tariff Rates (Net) 184 44% 140 44% 44 43%

Remove Tariff 3 50 12% 44 14% 6 6%

Leave tariff rates as is/don't change 38 9% 32 10% 6 6%

Increase tariffs 23 5% 8 3% 15 15%

Fares too expensive/unaffordable 20 5% 7 2% 13 13%

Reduce tariffs 12 3% 8 3% 4 4%

Tariff rates not account for wait time/time in rank

12 3% 11 3% 1 1%

Reduce Tariff 3 11 3% 11 3% 0 0%

Remove Tariff 4 9 2% 5 2% 4 4%

Tariff Rate Times (Net) 62 15% 58 18% 4 4%

Tariff 2 should be extended until 10pm 9 2% 9 3% 0 0%

Bank holidays should be Tariff 2 not Tariff 3

8 2% 8 3% 0 0%

Tariff 2 should be extended until 12am/Tariff 3 should start at 12am

8 2% 8 3% 0 0%

Distance (Net) 38 9% 35 11% 3 3%

Minimum fare should cover a longer distance

17 4% 15 5% 2 2%

The tariff for long journeys should increase from 6 miles

8 2% 8 3% 0 0%

Additional Charges (Net) 40 9% 26 8% 14 14%

Charge extra for additional passengers 15 4% 14 4% 1 1%

Should pay pollution charge/No ULEV exemptions

9 2% 0 0% 9 9%

Disabled passengers excluded from additional charges

6 1% 0 0% 6 6%

Route (Net) 17 4% 11 3% 6 6%

Traffic/Congestion (Net) 83 20% 31 10% 52 51%

Taxis should pay the Congestion Charge 41 10% 1 0% 40 39%

Taxis contribute to pollution/poor air quality in London

26 6% 0 0% 26 25%

Traffic affects rates/makes rates too high 25 6% 25 8% 0 0%

Taxis account for a large volume of traffic/cause congestion

24 6% 1 0% 23 23%

Passengers should pay a congestion charge/£5 congestion charge

17 4% 0 0% 17 17%

Charge Card Fees (Net) 53 13% 44 14% 9 9%

Charge more/increase fare for card customers

23 5% 22 7% 1 1%

Drivers should not be charged for card payments

18 4% 14 4% 4 4%

Private hire services (Net) 84 20% 51 16% 33 32%

Need to compete with/match private hire services rates

30 7% 23 7% 7 7%

Private hire services should be more regulated/unable to undercut taxi fares

22 5% 15 5% 7 7%

Private hire services should pay 15 4% 0 0% 15 15%

31

Congestion Charge

Negative private hire comments 12 3% 10 3% 2 2%

Reduce/limit number of private hire services on the road

7 2% 5 2% 2 2%

Private hire services contribute to pollution/poor air quality

5 1% 0 0% 5 5%

Private hire services contribute to traffic/congestion

4 1% 0 0% 4 4%

Passenger Volume (Net) 43 10% 39 12% 4 4%

Need to remain competitive/increases to fares risk losing business

22 5% 21 7% 1 1%

Tariff rates are putting people off of taking taxis/encouraging them to use other forms of transportation

12 3% 11 3% 1 1%

There is no night work/taxi fares are putting people off of taking taxis at night

10 2% 9 3% 1 1%

Miscellaneous 127 30% 82 26% 45 44%

New vehicles are high cost/need to offset costs of new vehicles/increased running costs

32 8% 29 9% 3 3%

Have already lost earnings/risk of earning less than minimum wage

27 6% 23 7% 4 4%

Should discourage use of taxis in favour of more sustainable modes of transport

14 3% 1 0% 13 13%

Publicly advertise the rates/make customers aware of rates

13 3% 11 3% 2 2%

Taxis are inefficient modes of transportation/often travel empty or with low passenger count

13 3% 0 0% 13 13%

Tariffs should be less confusing 11 3% 10 3% 1 1%

Taxis are not for/used by ordinary Londoners but only the wealthy

6 1% 0 0% 6 6%

Follow New York City's taxi/private hire services model

5 1% 1 0% 4 4%

Survey questions are biased/self-serving/follow an agenda

5 1% 2 1% 3 3%

Encourage quicker take-up of non-polluting/non-diesel vehicles

4 1% 0 0% 4 4%

32

4.2 Potential changes to Cost Index

4.2.1 Summary of responses to Question 8: Removing the social costs

elements from the Cost Index

We asked respondents if the social costs element should be removed from the Cost

Index.

Among taxi drivers, just under two-thirds (61%) disagreed and stated that they

should not be removed. Only 10 per cent wanted the social costs element to be

removed.

Summary of responses to Question 8: Should the social costs element be removed from the Cost Index?

4.2.2 Summary of responses to Question 9: Adding costs for card payment

transaction charges to the Cost Index

We asked respondents if the costs for card payment transaction charges should be

added to the Cost Index.

The majority of taxi drivers (79%) were in favour of adding the costs for card

payment transaction charges.

32% 29%

57% 61%

11% 10%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%



Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes

No


33

Summary of responses to Question 9: Should the costs for card payment transaction charges to be added to the Cost Index?

4.2.3 Summary of responses to Question 10: Issues commonly raised (open

question analysis)

We asked respondents to provide feedback on why they think that either of the

changes to the Cost Index should not be made.

The majority of taxi drivers who responded around card payment transaction charges

stated that they should be passed on to the customer (19%), they should not be paid

by the driver (15%), and are too high (13%). Some also stated that if customer fares

were increased, there would be potential to lose customers (13%).

Summary of responses to Question 10: If you do not feel that either of these proposed changes should be made to the Cost Index please state why.

All respondents Taxi Drivers

Base 151 131

Count % Count %

Minimum Fare (Net) 9 6% 9 7%

20p increase to minimum fare is taken by increase in credit card company charges

6 4% 6 5%

Tariff Rates (Net) 14 9% 11 8%

Night time/unsocial hours should carry a premium/additional charge

8 5% 7 5%

Cost Index (Net) 27 18% 24 18%

No change needed/leave it as it is 8 5% 7 5%

Cost index should reflect charge 7 5% 6 5%

12% 9%

15% 13%

72% 79%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%



Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes

No


34

card fee costs to driver

Cost index should not reflect charge card fee costs to driver

5 3% 5 4%

Charge Card Fees (Net) 86 57% 78 60%

Card fees should be passed on to the customer

25 17% 25 19%

Card fees should not be paid by the driver

21 14% 20 15%

Fees are too high/card machine supplier should charge less

18 12% 17 13%

Drivers are penalised/lose money on card charges

17 11% 17 13%

Cash customers should not be penalised for other card paying customers

9 6% 8 6%

Should not charge extra for card payments

8 5% 6 5%

Cost should be absorbed by the business

6 4% 5 4%

European law says that no card costs can be charged

4 3% 2 2%

Miscellaneous 46 30% 39 30%

Need to remain competitive/potential to lose customers if fares increase

17 11% 17 13%

Not sure what social costs are/unclear how this impacts taxi fares

7 5% 6 5%

Need extra revenue to cover all of the other costs/overhead of running a taxi

5 3% 5 4%

Majority of work is paid for by credit card/cards are becoming an increasingly popular payment method

4 3% 3 2%

4.3 Fuel price changes

4.3.1 Summary of responses to Question 11: Provision to allow increase in

taxi fares if diesel prices rise

We asked respondents if there should continue to be a provision to allow an increase

in taxi fares if diesel prices rise by a significant amount.

The majority (80%) of taxi drivers agreed that this provision should remain in place.

35

Summary of responses to Question 11: Should there continue to be a provision to allow an increase in taxi fares if diesel prices rise by a significant amount?

4.3.2 Summary of responses to Question 12: Provision to allow decrease in

taxi fares if diesel prices fall

We asked respondents if there should continue to be a provision to allow a decrease

in taxi fares if diesel prices fall by a significant amount.

A similar proportion of taxi drivers were in support (48%) and opposed (44%) to

continuing the provision to allow a decrease in taxi fares.

8% 5%

17% 15%

74% 80%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%



Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes

No


36

Summary of responses to Question 12: Should there continue to be a provision to allow a decrease in taxi fares if diesel prices fall by a significant amount?

4.3.3 Summary of responses to Question 13: Appropriateness of 40 pence

extra charge

We asked respondents if the current arrangement of allowing an extra charge of 40

pence to be added to or taken off of the final taxi fare was the appropriate way to

increase or decrease fares if diesel prices change by a significant amount.

Just under half (45%) of taxi drivers stated this is the appropriate way.

10% 8%

43% 44%

46% 48%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%



Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes

No


37

Summary of responses to Question 13: Is the current arrangement of allowing an extra charge of 40 pence to be added to or taken off of the final taxi fare the appropriate way to do this?

4.4 Increasing the Heathrow Extra

4.4.1 Summary of responses to Question 14: Increase of Heathrow Airport

extra charge

We asked respondents if the extra charge passengers pay when taking a taxi from

one of the taxi ranks at Heathrow Airport should be increased from £2.80 to £3.20.

The chart below shows that one-third (34%) of taxi drivers agreed with this increase.

This was higher among All London Drivers who work from the taxi ranks at Heathrow

Airport, at just over a half (55%). Around half of users (47%) agreed that the extra

charge should be increased.

29% 26%

29% 29%

42% 45%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%



Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes

No


38

Summary of responses to Question 14: Should the extra charge passengers pay when taking a taxi from one of the taxi ranks at Heathrow Airport be increased from £2.80 to £3.20?

4.4.2 Summary of responses to Question 15: Extra charges for fuel price

changes or for journeys from Heathrow Airport - Issues commonly raised

(open question analysis)

We asked respondents if they had any feedback about the extra charges for fuel

price changes or for journeys from the taxi ranks at Heathrow Airport.

Taxi drivers who responded gave a range of responses for the Heathrow Airport

charge. Some stated the charge to passengers should be full price (9%) while others

suggested that fares from Heathrow Airport should be a fixed price (8%).

Summary of responses to Question 15: If you have any comments about the

extra charges for fuel price changes or for journeys from the taxi ranks at

Heathrow Airport please let us know.

All


Heathrow Drivers

Base 160 119 57


Tariff Rates (Net) 17 11% 14 12% 6 11%

Leave fare as is/don't change (not specific)

6 4% 6 5% 3 5%

Other tariff rates mentions 11 7% 8 7% 3 5%

Diesel Charge (Net) 41 26% 31 26% 13 23%

28% 27%

6% 6%

37% 38%

39% 47%

35% 34%

55% 47%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%



Heathrow Taxi Drivers(Base n=341)

Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes

No


39

Adjustment should be automatic/too difficult to manually add 40p charge/reduction

7 4% 7 6% 3 5%

Use of diesel vehicles should be discouraged

7 4% 0 0% 0 0%

Diesel soon to become irrelevant/drivers switching to electric/non-diesel

5 3% 4 3% 2 4%

Diesel charge should be dependent on price of diesel fuel

5 3% 4 3% 1 2%

Should adjust tariffs for fuel instead

4 3% 4 3% 3 5%

Heathrow Airport Charge (Net)

75 47% 58 49% 33 58%

Heathrow Airport charge to passengers should be full price

14 9% 11 9% 9 16%

Airport fares should be fixed price

13 8% 9 8% 3 5%

Taxis from Heathrow Airport are too expensive

11 7% 6 5% 2 4%

There should be no/less charge for drivers at Heathrow Airport

9 6% 7 6% 6 11%

Leave Heathrow Airport fare as is/don't change

8 5% 6 5% 4 7%

Heathrow Airport charges should only rise if cost to driver rises

5 3% 5 4% 2 4%

Drivers can opt not to pick up at Heathrow Airport

3 2% 3 3% 0 0%

Fees should fund a taxi desk within the terminal

3 2% 3 3% 2 4%

Private Hire Services (Net)

9 6% 8 7% 4 7%

Private hire services should be more regulated

5 3% 5 4% 3 5%

Miscellaneous 42 26% 30 25% 16 28%

Discourage use of taxis in favour of more sustainable/cleaner transportation

6 4% 0 0% 0 0%

Cost of new vehicles/running costs are expensive/need to recoup some of the running costs

5 3% 5 4% 3 5%

Increasing fares would 4 3% 4 3% 2 4%

40

drive away customers/make taxis less competitive

Have a charge for City Airport

3 2% 3 3% 1 2%

Extra charges open up risk for abuse by drivers

3 2% 2 2% 1 2%

4.5 Fixed fare and capped fare schemes

4.5.1 Summary of responses to Question 16: Support for fixed fare schemes

to and from Heathrow Airport to Central London

We asked respondents if they would support a fixed fare scheme from Heathrow

Airport to Central London.

Around half (54%) of Heathrow taxi drivers were opposed to the fixed fare scheme

from Heathrow Airport to Central London. Opposition was lower (38%) within the

total taxi driver group. Users showed the least opposition to the fixed fare scheme

(28%), with 60% of users in support.

41

Summary of responses to Question 16: Would you support either of the following fixed fare schemes? - Fixed fare scheme from Heathrow Airport to Central London

We asked respondents if they would support a fixed fare scheme from Central

London to Heathrow Airport.

The chart below shows just under half (44%) of Heathrow taxi drivers were opposed

to the fixed fare scheme. Opposition was slightly lower (39%) within the total taxi

driver group. Users showed the least opposition to the fixed fare scheme (29%).

22% 20%

9% 12%

36% 38% 54%

28%

41% 41% 36%

60%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Support

Oppose


42

Summary of responses to Question 16: Would you support either of the

following fixed fare schemes? - Fixed fare scheme from Central London to

Heathrow Airport

4.5.2 Summary of responses to Question 17: Suitable fixed fare from

Heathrow Airport to Central London

We asked respondents what a suitable fixed fare from Heathrow Airport to Central

London would be for Tariff 1.

Around one-third (31%) of taxi drivers, and a similar proportion for Heathrow drivers

(30%), stated a suitable fixed fare would be £60-£70 for Tariff 1. The most agreed

amount among users was £40-£50 (20%).

16% 13% 6%

12%

37% 39% 44% 29%

47% 48% 50% 59%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Support

Oppose


43

Summary of responses to Question 17: What do you think a suitable fixed fare from Heathrow Airport to Central London would be during the following times: Tariff 1 Monday to Friday, 05:00-20:00



Around one-third (31%) of taxi drivers stated a suitable fixed fare would be £60-£70

for Tariff 2. A slightly smaller proportion (25%) of Heathrow drivers agreed. The most

suitable fare agreed among users was split between £40-£50 (16%) and £60-70

(14%).

28% 26% 28% 33%

5% 4% 2%

20% 22% 25%

18%

7%

28% 31%

30% 12%

10% 11% 13%

12%

2% 2% 4%

1%

1% 1% 1%

1%

2% 1% 3%

13%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

£100+

£90-£100

£80-£90

£70-£80

£60-£70

£50-£60

£40-£50

Not Answered / Noneof the above

44

Summary of responses to Question 17: What do you think a suitable fixed fare

from Heathrow Airport to Central London would be during the following times:

Tariff 2 Monday to Friday, 20:00-22:00 Saturday and Sunday, 05:00-22:00



Around one-quarter (24%) of taxi drivers stated a suitable fixed fare would be £70-

£80 for Tariff 3. A slightly smaller proportion (21%) of Heathrow drivers agreed. The

suitable fare agreed among users was split between £40-£50 (14%) and £100+

(16%).

29% 26% 29% 32%

3% 2%

1%

16% 12%

13% 9%

6%

28% 31% 25%

14%

18% 20%

22% 8%

6% 6% 8%

8%

2% 2% 4%

2%

3% 1% 3%

13%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

£100+

£90-£100

£80-£90

£70-£80

£60-£70

£50-£60

£40-£50


45

Summary of responses to Question 17: What do you think a suitable fixed fare

from Heathrow Airport to Central London would be during the following times:

Tariff 3 Every night 22:00-05:00 Public holidays

4.5.3 Summary of responses to Question 18: Suitable fixed fare from Central

London to Heathrow Airport

We asked respondents what a suitable fixed fare from Central London to Heathrow

Airport would be for Tariff 1.

Around one-third (31%) of taxi drivers, and a similar proportion for Heathrow drivers

(31%), stated a suitable fixed fare would be £60-£70 for Tariff 1. The most agreed

amount among users was £40-£50 (19%).

30% 26% 29% 32%

3% 1%

0%

14% 7%

7% 5%

6% 19% 21%

17%

8%

22% 24%

21% 10%

13% 14% 18%

10%

4% 4% 4%

5%

4% 3% 5%

16%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

£100+

£90-£100

£80-£90

£70-£80

£60-£70

£50-£60

£40-£50


46

Summary of responses to Question 18: What do you think a suitable fixed fare from Central London to Heathrow Airport would be during the following times: Tariff 1 Monday to Friday, 05:00-20:00



One-third (33%) of taxi drivers, and a similar proportion for Heathrow drivers (31%),

stated a suitable fixed fare would be £60-£70 for Tariff 2. The most agreed amount

among users was split between £40-£50 (16%) and £100+ (14%).

28% 24% 25%

33%

6% 5% 4%

19% 24%

27% 25%

10%

28% 31% 31% 11%

8% 9% 9%

11%

2% 2% 3%

2%

1% 1% 1%

1%

2% 1% 2%

13%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

£100+

£90-£100

£80-£90

£70-£80

£60-£70

£50-£60

£40-£50


47

Summary of responses to Question 18: What do you think a suitable fixed fare from Central London to Heathrow Airport would be during the following times: Tariff 2 Monday to Friday, 20:00-22:00 Saturday and Sunday, 05:00-22:00



Around one-quarter (24%) of taxi drivers suggested a suitable fixed fare would be

£60-£70, and the same proportion chose £70-£80 for Tariff 3. Heathrow drivers were

also were split between the two fares brackets (22% stated £60-£70, 23% stated

£70-£80). The most agreed amount among users was £100+ (16%).

28% 24% 25% 33%

4% 2% 1%

16% 14%

16% 14%

7%

29% 33% 31%

12%

16% 18% 17%

8%

5% 5% 6%

8%

1% 1% 2%

1%

3% 1% 2%

14%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

£100+

£90-£100

£80-£90

£70-£80

£60-£70

£50-£60

£40-£50


48

Summary of responses to Question 18: What do you think a suitable fixed fare from Central London to Heathrow Airport would be during the following times: Tariff 3 Every night 22:00-05:00 Public holidays

4.5.4 Summary of responses to Question 19: Support for capped fare

schemes to and from Heathrow Airport to Central London

We asked respondents if they would support a capped fare scheme from Heathrow

Airport to Central London.

Users were the most supportive (51%) of the capped fare scheme from Heathrow

Airport, above taxi drivers (40%). Around half (52%) of Heathrow taxi drivers were

opposed to the capped fare scheme.

28% 24% 25%

34%

3% 2% 1%

13%

8% 9% 8%

6% 21% 24% 22%

7%

21% 24% 23%

8%

11% 11% 12%

10%

4% 4% 6%

6%

3% 2% 3%

16%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

£100+

£90-£100

£80-£90

£70-£80

£60-£70

£50-£60

£40-£50


49

Summary of responses to Question 19: Would you support either of the following capped fare schemes: Capped fare scheme from Heathrow Airport to Central London

We asked respondents if they would support a capped fare scheme from Central

London to Heathrow Airport.

All three respondent groups showed a similar level of support towards the capped

fare scheme from Central London. Users were the most supportive (51%), followed

by Heathrow taxi drivers (48%), and then taxi drivers in general (45%).

22% 20% 10%

16%

38% 40% 52%

33%

40% 40% 38%

51%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Support

Oppose


50

Summary of responses to Question 19: Would you support either of the following capped fare schemes: Capped fare scheme from Central London to Heathrow Airport

4.5.5 Summary of responses to Question 20: Suitable capped fare from

Heathrow Airport to Central London

We asked respondents what a suitable capped fare from Heathrow Airport to Central


One-quarter (25%) of taxi drivers, and a similar proportion for Heathrow drivers

(24%), stated a suitable capped fare is £60-£70 for Tariff 1. The most agreed amount

among users was £40-£50 (22%).

18% 15% 9%

16%

38% 40% 43% 33%

44% 45% 48% 51%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Support

Oppose


51

Summary of responses to Question 20: What do you think a suitable capped fare from Heathrow Airport to Central London would be during the following times: Tariff 1 Monday to Friday, 05:00-20:00



One-quarter (25%) of taxi drivers selected the option for the capped fare of £60-£70

for Tariff 2. Heathrow drivers were split between £60-£70 (19%) and the higher value

of £70-£80 (19%). The fares bracket of £40-£50 (18%) was the preferred cap for

users.

35% 32% 33% 37%

5% 3% 2%

22% 16% 18%

14%

1%

23% 25%

24% 10%

12% 12%

12% 11%

4% 4% 8%

6%

2% 2% 4%

1%

3% 2% 3% 12%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=125)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

£100+

£90-£100

£80-£90

£70-£80

£60-£70

£50-£60

£40-£50


52

Summary of responses to Question 20: What do you think a suitable capped fare from Heathrow Airport to Central London would be during the following times: Tariff 2 Monday to Friday, 20:00-22:00 Saturday and Sunday, 05:00-22:00



One-fifth (20%) of taxi drivers, and a similar proportion of Heathrow drivers (18%),

showed preference for the capped fare option of £70-£80 for Tariff 3. The fares

bracket of £40-50 (17%) is the preferred cap for users.

36% 33% 34% 37%

3% 2% 1%

18% 10%

11% 8%

5% 22% 25%

19%

5%

17% 18%

19% 11%

7% 7%

10%

8%

3% 3% 5%

4%

3% 2% 4% 12%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

£100+

£90-£100

£80-£90

£70-£80

£60-£70

£50-£60

£40-£50


53

Summary of responses to Question 20: What do you think a suitable capped fare from Heathrow Airport to Central London would be during the following times: Tariff 3 Every night 22:00-05:00 Public holidays

4.5.6 Summary of responses to Question 21: Suitable capped fare from

Central London to Heathrow Airport

We asked respondents what a suitable capped fare from Central London to

Heathrow Airport would be for Tariff 1.

Around one-quarter (26%) of taxi drivers and Heathrow drivers (25%) indicated that

a suitable capped fare would be £60-£70 for Tariff 1. One-fifth (22%) of users

selected £40-£50 as the most suitable fare bracket.

36% 34% 34% 36%

3% 1% 0%

17% 6% 6% 5%

5% 15% 17%

13%

7%

18% 20%

18%

7%

12% 13%

16% 7%

6% 6% 8%

7%

4% 3% 5%

16%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

£100+

£90-£100

£80-£90

£70-£80

£60-£70

£50-£60

£40-£50


54

Summary of responses to Question 21: What do you think a suitable capped fare from Central London to Heathrow Airport would be during the following times: Tariff 1 Monday to Friday, 05:00-20:00



Around one-quarter (27%) of taxi drivers, and slightly less of Heathrow drivers

(23%), selected the option for a suitable capped fare could be £60-£70 for Tariff 2.

The £40-50 fares bracket was considered the most suitable among users (16%).

35% 32% 31% 37%

6% 4% 4%

22% 18% 20% 19%

2%

23% 26% 25% 8%

11% 12% 11%

13%

3% 3% 6%

4%

2% 2% 2%

1%

3% 1% 2% 12%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

£100+

£90-£100

£80-£90

£70-£80

£60-£70

£50-£60

£40-£50


55

Summary of responses to Question 21: What do you think a suitable capped fare from Central London to Heathrow Airport would be during the following times: Tariff 2 Monday to Friday, 20:00-22:00 Saturday and Sunday, 05:00-22:00



Higher capped fares were preferred for Tariff 3, as around one-fifth of taxi drivers

(21%) and Heathrow drivers (22%) stated a suitable capped fare is £70-£80. The

£40-50 fares bracket was again considered the most suitable among users (16%).

34% 32% 32% 38%

4% 2% 2%

16% 10%

11% 10%

6% 24%

27% 23%

5%

16% 17% 18%

12%

7% 7% 9%

8%

2% 3% 3%

1%

3% 2% 3%

13%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

£100+

£90-£100

£80-£90

£70-£80

£60-£70

£50-£60

£40-£50

Not Answered /None of the above

56

Summary of responses to Question 21: What do you think a suitable capped fare from Central London to Heathrow Airport would be during the following times: Tariff 3 Every night 22:00-05:00 Public holidays

4.5.7 Summary of responses to Question 22: Areas in Central London for

fixed or capped fare scheme from Heathrow Airport

We asked respondents how areas in Central London should be designated if a fixed

or capped fare scheme was taken forward.

It was largely agreed that postcode districts would be the best way of designating

areas, with similar agreement seen among taxi drivers (40%), Heathrow drivers

(41%), and users (43%).

34% 32% 32% 36%

3% 1% 1%

16% 6%

6% 4%

6% 17%

19% 16%

5%

19% 21% 22%

7%

11% 12% 14%

8%

5% 5% 6%

8%

4% 3% 4% 13%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%




Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

£100+

£90-£100

£80-£90

£70-£80

£60-£70

£50-£60

£40-£50


57

Summary of responses to Question 22: If a fixed or capped fare scheme was taken forward how should the areas in Central London be designated

4.5.8 Summary of responses to Question 23: Fixed or capped fares to and

from Heathrow Airport and Central London - Issues commonly raised (open

question analysis)

We asked respondents if they had any feedback about why they did not support the

fixed or capped fares to and from Heathrow Airport and Central London.

Around half (48%) of taxi drivers who provided feedback stated London rates do not

account for London traffic and road work. Around one-fifth suggested there should

be no fixed fares between Heathrow and Central London (22%), and taxis should

continue to charge meter fares only (20%). Some stated that fixed fares should be

optional (12%).

Responses were similar among those who use the ranks at Heathrow Airport,

although Heathrow drivers were more likely to cite that fixed fares do not account for

wait times (13%).

Summary of responses to Question 23: If you do not support these schemes then please tell us why.

All


Heathrow Drivers

Base 382 337 126


Fixed Fares (Net) 131 34% 121 36% 50 40%

No fixed fares/fixed fairs unfair/disagree with fixed fares

79 21% 74 22% 32 25%

31% 29% 28% 21%

3% 3% 5%

6%

3% 3%

4%

4%

24% 26% 21% 25%

39% 40% 41% 43%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%


Taxi Drivers(Base n=1131)


Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Using postcodedistricts

Using specific areas

Using hotels

Other


58

Fixed fares should be optional/not mandated

42 11% 40 12% 15 12%

Fixed fare only good for trips to Heathrow and not from Heathrow

10 3% 10 3% 7 6%

Tariff Rates (Net) 97 25% 83 25% 31 25%

Continue to use meter fares only

72 19% 69 20% 22 17%

Capped Fares (Net) 41 11% 34 10% 10 8%

No capped fares/capped fairs unfair/disagree with capped fares

32 8% 28 8% 8 6%


London traffic/rates do not account for London traffic/road work

171 45% 162 48% 65 52%

Fares do not account for wait times/wait times too long

24 6% 23 7% 16 13%

Drivers will lose out due to traffic levels

18 5% 18 5% 8 6%

Route (Net) 38 10% 33 10% 13 10%

Capped/fixed fares should vary by route/post code/location

16 4% 14 4% 9 7%

Capped/fixed fares should vary by terminal

12 3% 12 4% 2 2%


Fixed fares are for private hire/online app services

24 6% 23 7% 10 8%

Cannot compete with pricing of private hire services

14 4% 14 4% 6 5%


9 2% 9 3% 4 3%

Miscellaneous 119 31% 106 31% 48 38%

Potential for drivers to lose income/earn less than minimum wage

31 8% 30 9% 15 12%

Do not support the scheme/no need to change/don't fix what is not broken (not specific)

15 4% 15 4% 8 6%

Need more advertising/visibility of rates to Londoners

13 3% 13 4% 7 6%

Drivers may refuse to comply/turn away customers

12 3% 11 3% 4 3%

59

Have to pay additional costs of vehicle/fuel

10 3% 10 3% 4 3%

4.6 Euston station fixed fares

4.6.1 Summary of responses to Question 24: Increase in fare for fixed fare,

shared taxi schemes from Euston station

We asked respondents if the fares for fixed fare, shared taxi schemes that operate

from Euston Station should be increased by 50 pence.

Just over one-third (34%) of All London drivers agreed that they should be

increased, and a higher proportion of users (45%) also agreed to the increase.

Summary of responses to Question 24: Should the fares for fixed fare, shared taxi schemes that operate from Euston Station be increased by 50 pence?

4.7 Shared taxi conversion table

4.7.1 Summary of responses to Question 25: Adding fares for six

passengers to the shared taxi conversion table

We asked respondents if fares for six passengers sharing a taxi should be added to

the shared taxi conversion table.

47% 47%

21%

20% 20%

34%

33% 34%

45%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%


All London Drivers(Base n=1,059)

Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes

No

Not Answered /No Opinion /Don't know

60

Just under one-half of taxi drivers (44%) and half of users (51%) agreed that fares

for six passengers sharing a taxi should be added to the shared taxi conversion

table.

Summary of responses to Question 25: Should fares for six passengers sharing a taxi be added to the shared taxi conversion table?

4.7.2 Summary of responses to Question 26: Euston Station fixed fares and

fares for six passenger sharing - Issues commonly raised (open question

analysis)

We asked respondents for feedback on why they disagreed about the Euston Station

fixed fare being increased or fares for six passenger sharing being added to the

conversion table.

The most common issue raised by taxi drivers who responded was around the fixed

fare shared taxi scheme not being used, or used rarely (28%).

Summary of responses to Question 26: If you feel that the Euston Station fixed fares should not be increased or that fares for six passenger sharing should not be added to the conversion table please state why.


Base 137 112

Count % Count %

Fixed Fare Shared Taxi Scheme (Net)

62 45% 53 47%

No one uses the fixed fare shared taxi schemes/it is rarely used

33 24% 31 28%

Was not aware of Euston fixed fare 5 4% 5 4%

39% 38%

23%

18% 18%

25%

43% 44% 51%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%



Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes

No


61

shared taxi scheme

Was not aware of the fixed fare shared taxi scheme (not specific)

5 4% 5 4%

Shouldn't penalise passengers for sharing/having more in their party

5 4% 4 4%

Passengers dislike sharing/can have disagreements with other passengers

4 3% 2 2%


Fares are already expensive/too expensive

13 9% 5 4%

Do not increase fares 6 4% 5 4%

Passengers (Net) 15 11% 12 11%

Most taxis only take five passengers

8 6% 7 6%

Competition (Net) 7 5% 7 6%

Need to remain competitive 4 3% 4 4%

So long as work is increased 3 2% 3 3%

Traffic/Congestion (Net) 4 3% 3 3%

Other traffic/congestion mentions 4 3% 3 3%

Private Hire Services (Net) 7 5% 6 5%

Losing business to private hire services

6 4% 5 4%


Should stay as it is (not specific) 7 5% 7 6%

Raising costs would make taxis less competitive/potential to lose work

7 5% 7 6%

Too confusing for passengers 6 4% 5 4%

Taxis usually outnumber passengers so there is no need

4 3% 3 3%

4.8 Updating card payment device requirements to include

American Express

4.8.1 Summary of responses to Question 27: Updating card payment device

requirements to include American Express

We asked respondents if the card payment device requirements should be updated

to include American Express as well as Visa and MasterCard.

A large majority (73%) of taxi drivers, and a slightly smaller proportion (65%) of

users, agreed that that the card payment device requirements should be updated to

include American Express.

62

Summary of responses to Question 27: Should the card payment device requirements be updated so that drivers must accept American Express as well as Visa and MasterCard?

4.8.2 Summary of responses to Question 28: Adding American Express -

Issues commonly raised (open question analysis)

We asked respondents for feedback on why they did not support the proposal to

update the card payment device requirements to include American Express as well

as Visa and MasterCard.

Some taxi drivers expressed negative opinions about American Express as a

company when responding to this question and these have been grouped under one

code. Just over one-third of taxi drivers who gave a response expressed concern

around the expense to the driver (39%), particularly that American Express fees are

too high (22%). There was also some mention around the impact on convenience

(15%) due to processing times being longer and time consuming.

16% 13% 16%

13% 13%

18%

70% 73% 65%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%



Users(Base n=83)

Pro

port

ion o

f R

espondents

Yes

No


63

Summary of responses to Question 28: If you do not support this proposal please tell us why.


Base 171 148

Count % Count %

Expense to Driver (Net) 63 37% 57 39%

American Express fees are too high/higher than others

37 22% 32 22%

Too costly for driver/drivers pay fee 26 15% 25 17%

Expense to Passenger (Net) 11 6% 11 7%

Charge passenger for card usage 10 6% 10 7%

Convenience (Net) 24 14% 22 15%

American Express payments take too long/longer to process

19 11% 17 11%

Too inconvenient/time consuming for driver

6 4% 6 4%

Card Options (Net) 36 21% 29 20%

Drivers should choose which cards to accept

17 10% 15 10%

All cards should be accepted 12 7% 8 5%

Variety of other cards/payment methods already accepted

7 4% 6 4%

American Express Image/ Acceptance (Net)

28 16% 22 15%

Dislike American Express/American Express has a bad reputation

14 8% 12 8%

Other businesses don't accept American Express/Amex

11 6% 9 6%


Card payments are not legal tender and driver should not have to accept them

9 5% 8 5%

4.9 Summary of responses to Question 35: Further comments -

Issues commonly raised (open question analysis)

We asked respondents if they had any further feedback on the topics raised in the

consultation.

The most frequently mentioned further comment was that taxi fares are putting

customers off using taxis and encouraging them to use other forms of transportation

(14%).

64

Summary of responses to Question 35: Any further comments

All respondents

Base 115

Count %

Tariff Rates (Net) 26 23%

Leave fare as is/don't change 7 6%

Fares are too high/need to lower 6 5%

Meter rates are fair/transparent 4 3%

Additional Charges (Net) 4 3%

Route (Net) 14 12%

Fixed fares to/from Heathrow 4 3%

Traffic/Congestion (Net) 20 17%

Taxis should pay the Congestion Charge 7 6%

Fares are too expensive due to traffic/congestion 6 5%

Taxis contribute to congestion 4 3%

Taxis contribute to pollution/poor air quality 4 3%

Tariffs need to increase to compensate for congestion/pollution

3 3%

Charge Card Fees (Net) 14 12%

Drivers should not be charged for card payments 9 8%

Private hire services (Net) 20 17%

Private hire services have saturated the market 6 5%

Private hire services are operating illegally 4 3%

Private hire services should pay the Congestion Charge 3 3%

Remove private hire services 3 3%

Miscellaneous 57 50%


16 14%

Dislike non-taxi drivers voicing opinion 9 8%

Industry is being destroyed 8 7%

Need to be more competitive/regain work 7 6%

Use apps/technology 5 4%

Taxi industry needs supported/treated with respect 4 3%

TfL/taxi organisations are self-serving/out of touch/not working for good of the industry

4 3%

New vehicles are too expensive/need to recoup costs for vehicle

3 3%

Discourage use of taxis in favour of more sustainable public transportation

3 3%

65

4.10 Summary of responses to Question 40: Further comments

about quality of consultation - Issues commonly raised (open

question analysis)

We asked respondents for feedback on the quality of this consultation.

Just under one-third (29%) of taxi drivers who provided feedback to this question

stated that the consultation was biased and their feedback is not listened too, while a

small proportion (13%) thought that not enough provision was given for suggesting

alternatives.

Summary of responses to Question 40: What do you think about the quality of this consultation (for example, the information we have provided, any printed material you have received, any maps or plans, the website and questionnaire etc.)?


Base 127 112

Count % Count %

Positive (Grand Net) 5 4% 5 4%


Other positive miscellaneous mentions

5 4% 5 4%

Negative (Grand Net) 11 9% 11 10%


Credit card charges should be paid by customer/not driver

4 3% 4 4%

Keep fares the same/don't increase fares

4 3% 4 4%

No mention of cost of credit card fees to driver

3 2% 3 3%

Need to levy congestion charge on taxis to reduce congestion/pollution

3 2% 1 1%

Other tariff rates mentions 5 4% 5 4%

Survey Details/Information (Net) 71 56% 60 54%

Biased/you already have your mind made up/don't feel listened to

39 31% 33 29%

Not given an option to express alternatives/no other options

15 12% 14 13%

Non-taxi drivers should not have input

8 6% 7 6%

Too confusing/does not make sense/did not understand all terms used

5 4% 3 3%

Too long 4 3% 3 3%

Radio Taxis no longer exist 3 2% 3 3%

Other negative survey details/information mentions

18 14% 13 12%

66


Need to address the private hire services situation and consider regulation

13 10% 12 11%

TfL is unfit to run the taxi industry/do not have an understanding of the industry

11 9% 10 9%

Too much traffic/congestion is hurting the industry

8 6% 7 6%

Price of new vehicles is too expensive

5 4% 5 4%

Other negative miscellaneous mentions

13 10% 11 10%

No opinion 12 9% 12 11%

4.11 Summary of stakeholder responses

This section provides summaries of the feedback we received from stakeholders. We

sometimes have to condense detailed responses into brief summaries. The full

stakeholder responses are always used for analysis purposes.

Hale UK

Hale UK indicated that Tariff 1 and 2 was about right. However, Tariff 3 was a little

too expensive. The also indicated that the tariff rate for journeys over six miles and

the minimum fare were a little too low.

They indicated that the minimum fare should remain at £2.60 and Tariff 1 should not

be increased by 0.6%. They supported an increase of 0.6% to Tariff 2 and would like

the separate tariff rate for journeys over six miles removed. They also stated a

preference for fixed fares from airports.

They would like the cost of card payments added to the Cost Index and to keep the

provision to adjust fares if diesel prices increase or decrease significantly.

They supported increasing the extra charge to £3.20 for passengers taking a taxi

from a rank at Heathrow Airport. They would support a fixed fare scheme between

Heathrow Airport and central London in either direction.

They also supported the idea of capped fares between Heathrow Airport and central

London in either direction. They had a preference to use postcode districts to

designate the area covered in Central London by any fixed or capped fare scheme.

They were not in favour of increasing the fares for the shared taxi scheme at Euston

Station or adding fares for six passengers to the shared taxi conversion table.

67

Taxi drivers trade organisations; Unite the Union (Unite), London Taxi Drivers

Association (LTDA), United Cabbies Group (UCG), National Union of Rail,

Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) and the London Cab Drivers Club

(LCDC).

They support increasing the minimum fare and Tariffs 1 and 2. However they do not

support an increase to Tariff 3 or the tariff rate for journeys over six miles and feel

that these should be frozen for 2018.

They agree with removing the social cost element from the Cost Index and with

adding the transaction costs for card payment devices to the Cost Index. They stated

that a baseline figure for card payment costs needs to be established as part of the

2018 tariff review.

They support extending the fuel extra arrangement and adding an extra charge of 40

pence to the fare if diesel prices increase significantly and reducing fares by 40

pence if diesel prices fall significantly.

They do not support an increase in the Heathrow Airport extra charge for 2018. They

do not support any proposals for fixed or capped fares from Central London to

Heathrow Airport. However, they did state that there may be opportunities for a

capped fare scheme from the airport to Central London in the future.

They support increasing the shared taxi fares at Euston Station, adding fares for six

people to the shared taxi conversion table and adding American Express to the card

payment requirements.

London Councils

London Councils’ response focused on Taxicard members and the impact the

proposal to frontload increases would have on its members. They proposed an

increase inline with RPI of 2.6% across all tariffs as this could work out fairer to the

Taxicard users. They sought further discussions with us on how any potential

savings could be used to offset proposed fare increases.

London TravelWatch (LTW)

LTW supported increasing the minimum fare by 20p. They also supported an

increase of 0.6% to Tariff 1 and 2 and agree no changes should be made to Tariff 3.

They were happy with all of the proposals mentioned in the report relating to the tariff

rate for journeys over six miles.

They would like to see card payment transaction charges added to the Cost Index

and to keep the provision to decrease fares should diesel prices reduce significantly.

68

They supported increasing the extra charge for passengers taking a taxi from a rank

at Heathrow Airport and would like to see an arrangement introduced whereby a long

distance taxi journey to Heathrow can be matched up with a returning passenger.

They support fixed fares between Heathrow Airport and central London in both

directions and felt that the fare should be between £40 and £50 at all times.

They also support capped fares between Heathrow Airport and Central London in

both directions and felt that the fare should be between £40 and £50 at all times.

They would also like to see the shared taxi conversion table have the option for six

passengers and American Express added to the card payment requirements.

London Suburban Taxi-drivers’ Coalition

The LSTC stated that the London taxi tariff should reflect the cost of providing taxi

services and use the Cost Index but that this may need to be updated following the

introduction of the zero emission capable (ZEC) taxis.

This group presented several calculations on the current tariff rates and asked if the

number of units covered by the minimum fare should be increased from two to four.

There were comments about changes made to the tariff rate for journeys over six

miles and if time as well as distance still affects when this tariff rate starts.

The Public Administration Help Tank (PAHT)

The PAHT submitted an alternative fare and tariff structure, and list of costs. They

indicated that London taxi fares had become complicated and needed changing.

They stated that the changeover fare (tariff rate for journeys over six miles) was

anachronistic. They also referenced drivers keeping a log of journeys and these

being the foundation for any fares and tariffs revision next year.

4.12 Campaign organised by Stop Killing Cyclists

We received 49 emails from individuals prompted by the Stop Killing Cyclists group.

The campaign was organised using the @stoplillingcycl twitter account. There were

also eight responses on the online consultation tool that were taken out of the counts

and added to the numbers in the campaign. The points and issues raised from the

campaign will be answered when we publish our response to issues raised report.

https://twitter.com/stopkillingcycl?lang=en

69

5. Next steps

We are now reviewing comments made during the consultation and we will publish

our response to the issues raised.

Recommended changes to the taxi fares and tariffs will be submitted to TfL’s

Finance Committee for consideration and we will publish the details of any changes

made.

70

Appendix A: Detailed analysis of comments

Full responses to Question 7: If you think other changes should be made to any of the tariff rates or minimum fare please provide details of these or any other information to support your answers.

All


All Other Respondents

Base 422 320 102


Minimum Fare (Net) 89 21% 81 25% 8 8%


Minimum fare should be increased 14 3% 11 3% 3 3%




Leave minimum fare as is/freeze/don't change

6 1% 5 2% 1 1%

Minimum fare should be higher for card payments

3 1% 3 1% 0 0%

Other minimum fare mentions 14 3% 12 4% 2 2%

Tariff Rates (Net) 184 44% 140 44% 44 43%

Remove Tariff 3 50 12% 44 14% 6 6%

Leave tariff rates as is/don't change 38 9% 32 10% 6 6%

Increase tariffs 23 5% 8 3% 15 15%

Fares too expensive/unaffordable 20 5% 7 2% 13 13%

Reduce tariffs 12 3% 8 3% 4 4%

Tariff rates not account for wait time/time in rank

12 3% 11 3% 1 1%

Reduce Tariff 3 11 3% 11 3% 0 0%



Increase Tariff 1/Tariff 1 should increase to Tariff 2 rate

7 2% 7 2% 0 0%

Should only have 2 rates/day rate and night rate/only Tariff 1 and Tariff 2

6 1% 6 2% 0 0%

Freeze Tariff 3 5 1% 3 1% 2 2%

Increase Tariffs 1 and 2 for inflation 4 1% 3 1% 1 1%

0.6% rise is too low 4 1% 4 1% 0 0%

Reducing/removing Tariff 3 eliminates the incentive to work at night

4 1% 3 1% 1 1%


Tariff 2 to replace Tariff 3 3 1% 2 1% 1 1%


Tariff Rate Times (Net) 62 15% 58 18% 4 4%

Tariff 2 should be extended until 10pm 9 2% 9 3% 0 0%

Bank holidays should be Tariff 2 not Tariff 8 2% 8 3% 0 0%

71

3

Tariff 2 should be extended until 12am/Tariff 3 should start at 12am

8 2% 8 3% 0 0%

Tariff 2 should be extended until 5am 7 2% 7 2% 0 0%

Tariff 3 only for bank holidays/Christmas/New Year

7 2% 7 2% 0 0%

Extend Tariff 3 to 6am 6 1% 6 2% 0 0%

Tariff 2 should be weekends only 6 1% 5 2% 1 1%

Tariff 2 should run 24/7 5 1% 5 2% 0 0%

Tariff 2 should begin at 6pm 4 1% 4 1% 0 0%

Have separate tariff for holidays in place of adding extra charge

4 1% 3 1% 1 1%

One set rate throughout the day 3 1% 2 1% 1 1%

Other tariff rate times mentions 23 5% 22 7% 1 1%

Distance (Net) 38 9% 35 11% 3 3%

Minimum fare should cover a longer distance

17 4% 15 5% 2 2%

The tariff for long journeys should increase from 6 miles

8 2% 8 3% 0 0%

Tariff for longer journeys should be reduced

7 2% 6 2% 1 1%

Other distance mentions 8 2% 8 3% 0 0%

Additional Charges (Net) 40 9% 26 8% 14 14%

Charge extra for additional passengers 15 4% 14 4% 1 1%

Should pay pollution charge/no ULEV exemptions

9 2% 0 0% 9 9%

Disabled passengers excluded from additional charges

6 1% 0 0% 6 6%

Charge extra for luggage 3 1% 3 1% 0 0%

Raise the soil charge to cover expenses/lost wages

3 1% 2 1% 1 1%

Other additional charges mentions 12 3% 11 3% 1 1%

Route (Net) 17 4% 11 3% 6 6%

Fixed fares for airport journeys 6 1% 6 2% 0 0%

No fixed/capped airport fares 4 1% 3 1% 1 1%

Other route mentions 8 2% 3 1% 5 5%


Taxis should pay the Congestion Charge 41 10% 1 0% 40 39%

Taxis contribute to pollution/poor air quality in London

26 6% 0 0% 26 25%

Traffic affects rates/makes rates too high 25 6% 25 8% 0 0%

Taxis account for a large volume of traffic/cause congestion

24 6% 1 0% 23 23%

Passengers should pay a congestion charge/£5 congestion charge

17 4% 0 0% 17 17%

Slow down meter/reduce rate when stationary to account for traffic

4 1% 4 1% 0 0%

Other traffic/congestion mentions 6 1% 5 2% 1 1%

72

Charge Card Fees (Net) 53 13% 44 14% 9 9%

Charge more/increase fare for card customers

23 5% 22 7% 1 1%

Drivers should not be charged for card payments

18 4% 14 4% 4 4%

Companies providing card payment facilities should be regulated/charge card machine fees capped

5 1% 4 1% 1 1%

20p fee does not cover the fees incurred by drivers/taken by charge machine company fees

3 1% 3 1% 0 0%

Other charge card fees mentions 10 2% 7 2% 3 3%


Need to compete with/match private hire services rates

30 7% 23 7% 7 7%

Private hire services should be more regulated/unable to undercut taxi fares

22 5% 15 5% 7 7%

Private hire services should pay Congestion Charge

15 4% 0 0% 15 15%

Negative private hire comments 12 3% 10 3% 2 2%

Reduce/limit number of private hire services on the road

7 2% 5 2% 2 2%

Private hire services contribute to pollution/poor air quality

5 1% 0 0% 5 5%

Private hire services contribute to traffic/congestion

4 1% 0 0% 4 4%

Other private hire services mentions 8 2% 5 2% 3 3%

Passenger Volume (Net) 43 10% 39 12% 4 4%

Need to remain competitive/increases to fares risk losing business

22 5% 21 7% 1 1%


12 3% 11 3% 1 1%

There is no night work/taxi fares are putting people off of taking taxis at night

10 2% 9 3% 1 1%

Other passenger volume mentions 4 1% 3 1% 1 1%

Miscellaneous 127 30% 82 26% 45 44%

New vehicles are high cost/need to offset costs of new vehicles/increased running costs

32 8% 29 9% 3 3%

Have already lost earnings/risk of earning less than minimum wage

27 6% 23 7% 4 4%

Should discourage use of taxis in favour of more sustainable modes of transport

14 3% 1 0% 13 13%

Publicly advertise the rates/make customers aware of rates

13 3% 11 3% 2 2%

Taxis are inefficient modes of transportation/often travel empty or with low passenger count

13 3% 0 0% 13 13%

73

Tariffs should be less confusing 11 3% 10 3% 1 1%

Leave as is/no changes (not specific) 7 2% 7 2% 0 0%

Taxis are not for/used by ordinary Londoners but only the wealthy

6 1% 0 0% 6 6%

Follow New York City's taxi/private hire services model

5 1% 1 0% 4 4%

Survey questions are biased/self-serving/follow an agenda

5 1% 2 1% 3 3%

TfL should not oversee the taxi industry/are destroying the taxi industry

5 1% 5 2% 0 0%

Encourage quicker take-up of non-polluting/non-diesel vehicles

4 1% 0 0% 4 4%

Other mentions 23 5% 11 3% 12 12%

No opinion 9 2% 8 3% 1 1%

Full responses to Question 10: If you do not feel that either of these proposed changes should be made to the Cost Index please state why.


Base 151 131

Count % Count %

Minimum Fare (Net) 9 6% 9 7%

20p increase to minimum fare is taken by increase in credit card company charges

6 4% 6 5%

Other minimum fare mentions 3 2% 3 2%


Night time/unsocial hours should carry a premium/additional charge

8 5% 7 5%


Cost Index (Net) 27 18% 24 18%

No change needed/leave it as it is 8 5% 7 5%

Cost Index should reflect charge card fee costs to driver

7 5% 6 5%

Cost Index should not reflect charge card fee costs to driver

5 3% 5 4%

Removing social cost may result in a lack of availability of taxis at certain times/at night

2 1% 2 2%

Other Cost Index mentions 6 4% 5 4%

Charge Card Fees (Net) 86 57% 78 60%

Card fees should be passed on to the customer

25 17% 25 19%

Card fees should not be paid by the driver

21 14% 20 15%

Fees are too high/card machine supplier should charge less

18 12% 17 13%

74

Drivers are penalised/lose money on card charges

17 11% 17 13%

Cash customers should not be penalised for other card paying customers

9 6% 8 6%

Should not charge extra for card payments

8 5% 6 5%

Cost should be absorbed by the business

6 4% 5 4%

European law says that no card costs can be charged

4 3% 2 2%

Tips usually cover the credit card charges

3 2% 3 2%

Other charge card fees mentions 10 7% 7 5%


Need to remain competitive/potential to lose customers if fares increase

17 11% 17 13%

Not sure what social costs are/unclear how this impacts taxi fares

7 5% 6 5%

Need extra revenue to cover all of the other costs/overhead of running a taxi

5 3% 5 4%

Majority of work is paid for by credit card/cards are becoming an increasingly popular payment method

4 3% 3 2%

There is insufficient work/lower volume of passengers

3 2% 3 2%

Private hire services should be regulated/limited in numbers to taxis can compete

3 2% 3 2%

Other mentions 15 10% 10 8%

Don't Know 4 3% 4 3%

No opinion 4 3% 4 3%

Full responses to Question 15: If you have any comments about the extra

charges for fuel price changes or for journeys from the taxi ranks at Heathrow

Airport please let us know.

All


Heathrow Drivers

Base 160 119 57


Tariff Rates (Net) 17 11% 14 12% 6 11%

Leave fare as is/don't change (not specific)

6 4% 6 5% 3 5%

75


Diesel Charge (Net) 41 26% 31 26% 13 23%

Adjustment should be automatic/too difficult to manuallyadd 40p charge/reduction

7 4% 7 6% 3 5%

Use of diesel vehicles should be discouraged

7 4% 0 0% 0 0%

Diesel soon to become irrelevant/drivers switching to electric/non-diesel

5 3% 4 3% 2 4%

Diesel charge should be dependent on price of diesel fuel

5 3% 4 3% 1 2%

Should adjust tariffs for fuel instead

4 3% 4 3% 3 5%

Subsidise fuel costs to taxis 3 2% 2 2% 1 2%

Other diesel charge mentions

15 9% 13 11% 4 7%

Heathrow Airport Charge (Net)

75 47% 58 49% 33 58%

Heathrow Airport charge to passengers should be full price

14 9% 11 9% 9 16%

Airport fares should be fixed price

13 8% 9 8% 3 5%

Taxis from Heathrow Airport are too expensive

11 7% 6 5% 2 4%

There should be no/less charge for drivers at Heathrow Airport

9 6% 7 6% 6 11%

Leave Heathrow Airport fare as is/don't change

8 5% 6 5% 4 7%

Heathrow Airport charges should only rise if cost to driver rises

5 3% 5 4% 2 4%

Drivers can opt not to pick up at Heathrow Airport

3 2% 3 3% 0 0%

Should be no extra charge to passengers for travel at Heathrow Airport

3 2% 1 1% 0 0%

Fees should fund a taxi desk within the terminal

3 2% 3 3% 2 4%

Other Heathrow Airport charge mentions

19 12% 17 14% 10 18%

Private Hire Services (Net)

9 6% 8 7% 4 7%


5 3% 5 4% 3 5%

76

Adding charges would make taxis less competitive with private hire services

3 2% 2 2% 1 2%

Other private hire services mentions

4 3% 4 3% 1 2%

Miscellaneous 42 26% 30 25% 16 28%

Discourage use of taxis in favour of more sustainable/cleaner transportation

6 4% 0 0% 0 0%

Cost of new vehicles/running costs are expensive/need to recoup some of the running costs

5 3% 5 4% 3 5%

Increasing fares would drive away customers/make taxis less competitive

4 3% 4 3% 2 4%

Have a charge for City Airport

3 2% 3 3% 1 2%

Extra charges open up risk for abuse by drivers

3 2% 2 2% 1 2%

Other mentions 21 13% 16 13% 9 16%

Do not pick up at airport/no experience at airport

6 4% 5 4% 0 0%

No opinion 10 6% 9 8% 2 4%

Full responses to Question 23: If you do not support these schemes then please tell us why.

All


Heathrow Drivers

Base 382 337 126


Fixed Fares (Net) 131 34% 121 36% 50 40%

No fixed fares/fixed fares unfair/disagree with fixed fares

79 21% 74 22% 32 25%

Fixed fares should be optional/not mandated

42 11% 40 12% 15 12%

Fixed fare only good for trips to Heathrow and not from Heathrow

10 3% 10 3% 7 6%

Other fixed fares mentions 13 3% 10 3% 2 2%

Tariff Rates (Net) 97 25% 83 25% 31 25%

Continue to use meter fares only

72 19% 69 20% 22 17%

Fares should be high enough to discourage use

9 2% 1 0% 1 1%

77

of taxis/encourage use of other public transportation

Hotels misinform guests about rates/make customers believe taxis are too expensive

3 1% 3 1% 1 1%


Capped Fares (Net) 41 11% 34 10% 10 8%

No capped fares/capped fares unfair/disagree with capped fares

32 8% 28 8% 8 6%

Other capped fares mentions

9 2% 6 2% 2 2%


London traffic/rates do not account for London traffic/road work

171 45% 162 48% 65 52%

Fares do not account for wait times/wait times too long

24 6% 23 7% 16 13%

Drivers will lose out due to traffic levels

18 5% 18 5% 8 6%

Need to return the bus lane on M4

5 1% 5 1% 3 2%

Other traffic/congestion mentions

7 2% 2 1% 2 2%

Route (Net) 38 10% 33 10% 13 10%

Capped/fixed fares should vary by route/post code/location

16 4% 14 4% 9 7%

Capped/fixed fares should vary by terminal

12 3% 12 4% 2 2%

Does not account for additional drop-offs/pick-ups

4 1% 4 1% 1 1%

Does not account for mid-trip changes in location by customer

3 1% 3 1% 1 1%

Other route mentions 10 3% 7 2% 4 3%


Fixed fares are for private hire/online app services

24 6% 23 7% 10 8%

Cannot compete with pricing of private hire services

14 4% 14 4% 6 5%


9 2% 9 3% 4 3%

Private hire/online app services are illegal

8 2% 6 2% 1 1%

Private hire services are too 3 1% 3 1% 1 1%

78

numerous/need to be cut down in numbers


4 1% 4 1% 1 1%

Miscellaneous 119 31% 106 31% 48 38%

Potential for drivers to lose income/earn less than minimum wage

31 8% 30 9% 15 12%

Do not support the scheme/no need to change/don't fix what is not broken (not specific)

15 4% 15 4% 8 6%

Need more advertising/visibility of rates to Londoners

13 3% 13 4% 7 6%

Drivers may refuse to comply/turn away customers

12 3% 11 3% 4 3%

Have to pay additional costs of vehicle/fuel

10 3% 10 3% 4 3%

May cause confusion/arguments amongst passengers

9 2% 8 2% 3 2%

TfL should not interfere 9 2% 6 2% 2 2%

Taxi drivers are self-employed

6 2% 5 1% 4 3%

Need to remain competitive 4 1% 4 1% 2 2%

Not want to be part of a race to the bottom

4 1% 3 1% 2 2%

Crossrail coming to the airport will likely decrease airport business

3 1% 3 1% 0 0%

Other mentions 31 8% 24 7% 10 8%

Doesn't affect me/suburban driver

5 1% 5 1% 0 0%

Positive mentions (All) 10 3% 10 3% 4 3%

No opinion 5 1% 4 1% 2 2%

Full responses to Question 26: If you feel that the Euston Station fixed fares should not be increased or that fares for six passenger sharing should not be added to the conversion table please state why.


Base 137 112

Count % Count %

Fixed Fare Shared Taxi Scheme (Net)

62 45% 53 47%

79

No one uses the fixed fare shared taxi schemes/it is rarely used

33 24% 31 28%

Was not aware of Euston fixed fare shared taxi scheme

5 4% 5 4%

Was not aware of the fixed fare shared taxi scheme (not specific)

5 4% 5 4%

Shouldn't penalise passengers for sharing/having more in their party

5 4% 4 4%

Passengers dislike sharing/can have disagreements with other passengers

4 3% 2 2%

Fixed fare shared scheme should be incentivised to reduce congestion/pollution

3 2% 0 0%

Other fixed fare shared taxi scheme mentions

12 9% 11 10%


Fares are already expensive/too expensive

13 9% 5 4%

Do not increase fares 6 4% 5 4%


Passengers (Net) 15 11% 12 11%

Most taxis only take five passengers

8 6% 7 6%

Other passengers mentions 7 5% 5 4%

Competition (Net) 7 5% 7 6%

Need to remain competitive 4 3% 4 4%

So long as work is increased 3 2% 3 3%

Traffic/Congestion (Net) 4 3% 3 3%

Other traffic/congestion mentions 4 3% 3 3%

Private Hire Services (Net) 7 5% 6 5%

Losing business to private hire services

6 4% 5 4%


3 2% 2 2%


1 1% 1 1%


Should stay as it is (not specific) 7 5% 7 6%

Raising costs would make taxis less competitive/potential to lose work

7 5% 7 6%

Too confusing for passengers 6 4% 5 4%

Taxis usually outnumber passengers so there is no need

4 3% 3 3%

New taxi vehicles are too expensive/need to recoup some running costs

3 2% 2 2%


80

Don't Know 3 2% 3 3%


Full responses to Question 28: If you do not support this proposal please tell us why.


Base 171 148

Count % Count %

Expense to Driver (Net) 63 37% 57 39%

American Express fees are too high/higher than others

37 22% 32 22%

Too costly for driver/drivers pay fee 26 15% 25 17%

Other expense to driver mentions 4 2% 4 3%

Expense to Passenger (Net) 11 6% 11 7%

Charge passenger for card usage 10 6% 10 7%

Other expense to customer mentions

1 1% 1 1%

Convenience (Net) 24 14% 22 15%

American Express payments take too long/longer to process

19 11% 17 11%

Too inconvenient/time consuming for driver

6 4% 6 4%

Card Options (Net) 36 21% 29 20%

Drivers should choose which cards to accept

17 10% 15 10%

All cards should be accepted 12 7% 8 5%

Variety of other cards/payment methods already accepted

7 4% 6 4%

Other card options mentions 1 1% 1 1%

American Express Image/ Acceptance (Net)

28 16% 22 15%

Dislike American Express/American Express has a bad reputation

14 8% 12 8%

Other businesses don't accept American Express/Amex

11 6% 9 6%

American Express/Amex not used often/customers prefer other cards

4 2% 3 2%

Other American Express image/ acceptance mentions

1 1% 0 0%


Card payments are not legal tender and driver should not have to accept them

9 5% 8 5%

Need tip options when paying 3 2% 3 2%


I already accept American Express 19 11% 19 13%

81


Full responses to Question 35: Any further comments

All respondents

Base 115

Count %

Tariff Rates (Net) 26 23%

Leave fare as is/don't change 7 6%

Fares are too high/need to lower 6 5%

Meter rates are fair/transparent 4 3%

Other tariff rates mentions 11 10%

Additional Charges (Net) 4 3%

Other additional charges mentions 4 3%

Route (Net) 14 12%

Fixed fares to/from Heathrow 4 3%

Other route mentions 10 9%

Traffic/Congestion (Net) 20 17%

Taxis should pay the Congestion Charge 7 6%

Fares are too expensive due to traffic/congestion 6 5%

Taxis contribute to congestion 4 3%

Taxis contribute to pollution/poor air quality 4 3%

Tariffs need to increase to compensate for congestion/pollution

3 3%

Other traffic/congestion mentions 9 8%

Charge Card Fees (Net) 14 12%

Drivers should not be charged for card payments 9 8%

Other charge card fees mentions 6 5%

Private hire services (Net) 20 17%

Private hire services have saturated the market 6 5%

Private hire services are operating illegally 4 3%

Private hire services should pay the Congestion Charge 3 3%

Remove private hire services 3 3%

Other private hire services mentions 10 9%

Miscellaneous 57 50%


16 14%

Dislike non-taxi drivers voicing opinion 9 8%

Industry is being destroyed 8 7%

Need to be more competitive/regain work 7 6%

Use apps/technology 5 4%

Taxi industry needs supported/treated with respect 4 3%

TfL/taxi organisations are self-serving/out of touch/not 4 3%

82

working for good of the industry

New vehicles are too expensive/need to recoup costs for vehicle

3 3%

Discourage use of taxis in favour of more sustainable public transportation

3 3%

Other mentions 17 15%

No opinion 8 7%

Full responses to Question 40: What do you think about the quality of this consultation (for example, the information we have provided, any printed material you have received, any maps or plans, the website and questionnaire etc.)?


Base 127 112

Count % Count %

Positive (Grand Net) 5 4% 5 4%


Other positive miscellaneous mentions

5 4% 5 4%

Negative (Grand Net) 11 9% 11 10%


Credit card charges should be paid by customer/not driver

4 3% 4 4%

Keep fares the same/don't increase fares

4 3% 4 4%

No mention of cost of credit card fees to driver

3 2% 3 3%

Need to levy congestion charge on taxis to reduce congestion/pollution

3 2% 1 1%


Survey Details/Information (Net) 71 56% 60 54%

Biased/you already have your mind made up/don't feel listened to

39 31% 33 29%

Not given an option to express alternatives/no other options

15 12% 14 13%

Non-taxi drivers should not have input

8 6% 7 6%

Too confusing/does not make sense/did not understand all terms used

5 4% 3 3%

Too long 4 3% 3 3%

Radio Taxis no longer exist 3 2% 3 3%

Other negative survey details/information mentions

18 14% 13 12%


Need to address the private hire 13 10% 12 11%

83

services situation and consider regulation

TfL is unfit to run the taxi industry/do not have an understanding of the industry

11 9% 10 9%

Too much traffic/congestion is hurting the industry

8 6% 7 6%

Price of new vehicles is too expensive

5 4% 5 4%

Other negative miscellaneous mentions

13 10% 11 10%

No opinion 12 9% 12 11%

84

Appendix B: Consultation questions

Questions about our proposals

Please let us know what you think of the current taxi tariffs and minimum fare?

Much too

expensive

A little too

expensive

About

right

A little

too low

Much

too low

No

opinion

Don’t

know

Tariff 1

Monday to

Friday, 05:00-

20:00

Tariff 2

Monday to

Friday, 20:00-

22:00

Saturday and

Sunday,

05:00-22:00

Tariff 3

Every night

22:00-05:00

Public

holidays

Tariff for

journeys over

six miles

(sometimes

referred to as

Tariff 4)

Minimum fare

of £2.60

Should the minimum fare be increased from £2.60 to £3.00?

Yes by 20 pence

Yes by 40 pence

No it should remain £2.60

Don’t know

No opinion

Should Tariffs 1 and 2 be increased by 0.6 per cent?

Yes

85

No

Don’t know

No opinion

Should Tariff 2 be increased by 0.6 per cent?

Yes

No

Don’t know

No opinion

We are proposing not to change Tariff 3 do you agree or disagree with this?

Agree No changes should be made

Disagree – it should be decreased

Disagree – it should be increased

Don’t know

No opinion

Should any changes to the tariff rate for journeys over six miles be made?

Yes the distance should be increased from six miles to 12 miles

Yes the rate should be reduced

Yes the times when this tariff rate applies should be reduced

Yes this tariff rate should be removed

No changes should be made

Don’t know

No opinion

If you think other changes should be made to any of the tariff rates or minimum fare

please provide details of these or any other information to support your answers.

Free box to capture comments

Social costs element of the Cost Index

Should the social costs element be removed from the Cost Index?

Yes No Don’t know No Opinion

Adding costs for card payment transaction charges to the Cost Index

Should the costs for card payment transaction charges be added to the Cost

Index?

86


If you do not feel that either of these proposed changes should be made to the Cost

Index please state why.


Fuel price changes

Should there continue to be a provision to allow an increase in taxi fares if

diesel prices rise by a significant amount?


Should there continue to be a provision to allow a decrease in taxi fares if

diesel prices fall by a significant amount?


Is the current arrangement of allowing an extra charge of 40 pence to be added

to or taken off of the final taxi fare the appropriate way to do this?


Increasing the Heathrow Extra

Should the extra charge passengers pay when taking a taxi from one of the

taxi ranks at Heathrow Airport be increased from £2.80 to £3.20?


If you have any comments about the extra charges for fuel price changes or for

journeys from the taxi ranks at Heathrow Airport please let us know

Free text box to capture views

Fixed fare and capped fare schemes

Would you support either of the following fixed fare schemes:

Support Oppose Don’t know No opinion

Fixed fare scheme from

Heathrow Airport to

Central London


Central London to

Heathrow Airport

87

What do you think a suitable fixed fare from Heathrow Airport to Central

London would be during the following times:


Heathrow Airport to

Central London


Central London to

Heathrow Airport

Tariff 1 Monday to Friday, 05:00-20:00



Would you support either of the following capped fare schemes:

Support Oppose Don’t know No opinion

Capped fare scheme from

Heathrow Airport to

Central London


Central London to

Heathrow Airport

What do you think a suitable capped fare from Heathrow Airport to Central

London would be during the following times:


Heathrow Airport to

Central London


Central London to

Heathrow Airport

Tariff 1 Monday to Friday, 05:00-20:00


88


If a fixed or capped fare scheme was taken forward how should the areas in

Central London be designated:

Using postcode districts (e.g. WC2H, W1K, W1J, etc.)

Using specific areas (e.g. the West End, Piccadilly, Park Lane/Mayfair, etc.)

Using hotels

Other (please specify)

Don’t know

No opinion

If you do not support these schemes then please tell us why.


Euston Station fixed fares

Should the fares for fixed fare, shared taxi schemes that operate from Euston

Station be increased by 50 pence?


Shared taxi conversion table

Should fares for six passengers sharing a taxi be added to the shared taxi

conversion table?


If you feel that the Euston Station fixed fares should not be increased or that fares for

six passenger sharing should not be added to the conversion table please state why.


Updating the card payment device requirements to include American Express

Should the card payment device requirements be updated so that drivers must

accept American Express as well as Visa and MasterCard?

Yes No Don’t Know No opinion

If you do not support this proposal please tell us why.

89


About you

Privacy notice:

TfL, its subsidiaries and service providers will use your personal information for the

purpose of administering this consultation and assessing the responses. If you

provide your email address, TfL may send you updates about this consultation. Your

personal information will be properly safeguarded and processed in accordance with

the requirements of the Data Protection Act 1998.

Responses to the consultation may be made publicly available, but any personal

information will be kept confidential. You do not have to provide any personal

information, but this information may help TfL to understand the range of responses.

Please note: Cookies are essential for this survey (for more information on cookies,

please click on the following link: https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/cookie_policy)

Are you responding as:

A taxi (black cab) driver

A taxi (black cab) user

A Taxicard member

A non-taxi (black cab) user

A private hire/minicab operator

A private hire/minicab driver

A representative of an organisation

If you are a London licensed taxi (black cab) driver?

Are you an All London driver (tick box)

Are you a Suburban driver (tick box)

How many years have you been licensed as a taxi driver (Less than 3

years, 3-5 years, 6-10 years, 11-15 years, 16-20 years, Over 20 years)

Are you on a radio circuit (Computer Cab, Dial-a-Cab or Radio Taxis)

(yes/no)

Are you with a taxi app (e.g. Gett, Mytaxi, etc.) (yes/no)

Do you work from the taxi ranks at Heathrow Airport?

As a taxi (black cab) user, how often do you use taxis?

Daily

https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/cookie_policy

90

2-3 times a week

3-4 times a month

Once a month

Less often

Don’t know

If you have any further comments, please let us know.


If responding on behalf of an organisation, business or campaign group, please

provide us with the name of the organisation, business or campaign group.

Background information

What is your post code?

What is your email address?

This is optional, but if you enter your email address then you will be able to return to

edit your consultation response at any time until you submit it. You will also receive

an acknowledgement email when you complete the consultation.

How did you find out about this consultation?

What do you think about the quality of this consultation (for example, the information

we have provided, any printed material you have received, the website and

questionnaire etc.)?

Very good

Good

Acceptable

Poor

Very poor

Do you have any further comments?

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 requires public authorities to disclose

information they hold if it is requested. This includes information contained in

responses to public consultations. Our intention is to publish the responses received

but with any personal information removed. If you ask for your response to be kept

confidential this will only be possible if it is consistent with our obligations under the

Freedom of Information Act.

Equality Monitoring Please tell us about yourself in this section. All information will be kept confidential and used for analysis purposes only. We are asking these questions to ensure our

91

consultations reach all sections of the community and to improve the effectiveness of the way we communicate with our customers. You do not have to provide any personal information if you don’t want to. Gender: Male Female Trans female Trans male Gender neutral Prefer not to say Ethnic Group: Asian or Asian British – Bangladeshi Asian or Asian British – Chinese Asian or Asian British – Indian Asian or Asian British – Other Asian or Asian British – Pakistani Black or Black British – African Black or Black British – Caribbean Black or Black British – Other Mixed – Other Mixed – White and Asian Mixed – White and Black African Mixed – White and Caribbean Other Ethnic Group Other Ethnic Group – Arab Other Ethnic Group – Kurdish Other Ethnic Group – Latin American Other Ethnic Group – Turkish White – British White – Irish White – Other Prefer not to say Age: Under 15 16-20 21-25 26-30 31-35 36-40 41-45 46-50 51-55 56-60 61-65 66-70 71+ Prefer not to say

Sexual Orientation:

Heterosexual Bisexual Gay man Lesbian Other

Prefer not to say

Religious faith:

Buddhist Christian Hindu Muslim Sikh Jewish

Other No religion Prefer not to say

Are your day-to-day activities limited because of a health problem or disability

which has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12months?

(Please include problems related to old age)

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Yes, limited a lot

Yes, limited a little

No

Prefer not to say

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Appendix C: Stakeholders consulted

All London boroughs

All Greater London Assembly Members

All London Members of Parliament

All Home Counties Members of Parliament

London TravelWatach

123 Send

A and S Services

A1 taxis

Access in London

Action on Hearing Loss

Addison Lee

Adelante

Adelante

Age UK

Aquila Electronics

Ascott Cab & Co (Digitax)

Assistance Dogs UK

Beesley Engineering

British Bangladesh Minicab Drivers Association

BSI

Cab Card Services

Cab:app Ltd

CabCard Services Limited

Cabvision

Chauffeur and Executive Association

City of London Police

CMT UK Ltd

Computer Cab

Cricklewood Carriers – agent for Viking Meters

David Day, vice chairman of LMPCA

DfT

Dial-a-Cab

Digitax

Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee

ECV/KPM

Edgware Cab Company

Equality and Human Rights Commission

Farepay Ltd

Frazer Nash

George Grekos

Gett UK

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GMB

Guide Dogs

Gurinder Dhillon, Director, Otto

HAC Megameter

Hailo

Hale Taxi meters

Heart of London

Heathrow Airport Limited

Heathrow Airport Taxi Drivers United

Inclusion London

Ingenico

Institue of Licensing

Institute of Professional Drivers and Chauffeurs

iView

iZettle

Jacabs

John Beasley, Chairman of LMPCA

Joint Committee on Mobility for Disabled People

Just Taxis

Karsan

KPM UK

Licensed Private Hire Car Association

Licensed Taxi Drivers Association

Living Streets

London Accessible Transport Alliance

London Assembly Members

London Cab Drivers Club

London Chamber of Commerce and Industry

London City Airport

London Councils

London Cycling Campaign

London First

London NHS bodies

London Suburban Taxi Drivers Coalition

Long Lane Cabs

LTC

M&O

Mastercard

Metropolitian Police Service

National Association of Licensing and Enforcement Officers

National Measurement and Regulation Office (NMRO)

National Measurement and Regulation Office (NMRO)

Neighbouring taxi & private hire licensing authorities

Network Rail

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New West End Company

NMO

Pay by Phone/Verrus

Pay Cabs

Payleven

PayPal

Penso

PHV Board

Pool Motors

Putney Bridge Ltd

Radio Taxis

Rainham Road Taxis

Richmond Road Cab Centre

RMT

RNIB

Roads Task Force Members

S&H Cabs

Senior Traffic Commissioner

Sherbet

Sherbet

Society of London Theatre

Stephen Buckle

Steve Laidler, Digitax

Surrey Taxis Ltd

Suzy Lampugh Trust

Taxiworld

TfL Youth Panel

The Payment House

Train Operating Companies serving London

Transport Focus

Transport for All

UK Cards Association

Unite the Union

United Cabbies Group

Verifone

Verrus

Viking (The London & General Motor Cab Company Limited)

Visa

Visit London

Worshipful Company of Hackney Drivers

Wright Cab Company

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Appendix D Consultation Material

Copy of email text that was sent out to stakeholders

Email to stakeholders (taxi trade and others)

Dear stakeholder,

Proposed taxi fare and tariff changes 2018 We are seeking views on proposed changes to taxi fares and tariffs in London.

Transport for London (TfL) licenses and regulates taxi and private hire services in London. As part of this, we set the maximum fares that taxis (black cabs) can charge. These fares are determined by tariffs that are reviewed each year and normally updated to reflect changes in a Cost Index which tracks year on year changes to the costs of operating a taxi in London.

We are interested in your views on the following:

Whether the minimum fare of £2.60 should be increased and if so by how much

Whether Tariff 1 and Tariff 2 should be increased

Whether Tariff 3 should be frozen

Whether the tariff rate for journeys over six miles (Tariff 4) should be changed

Removing the social costs element from the Cost Index

Adding transaction costs for card payment devices to the Cost Index – this would be in addition to the 20 pence minimum fare increase introduced in April 2016

Continuing the present arrangement that allows taxi drivers to add an extra charge of 40 pence to the fare if fuel prices increase significantly and reduce fares by 40 pence if fuel prices fall significantly

Whether there should be an increase to the additional charge for taxi journeys that start from a taxi rank at Heathrow Airport and, if so, by how much

Reviewing options for fixed or capped fares to or from Heathrow Airport

Increasing by 50 pence the fares for the fixed fare, shared taxi schemes that operate from Euston Station

Adding fares for six passengers sharing a taxi to the shared taxi conversion table

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Updating the card payment device requirements for taxis so that all drivers accept American Express as well as Visa and MasterCard

Consultation Please go to our consultation website XXXX. You will find more information about the background to these proposals, as well as a questionnaire seeking your views. Responses must be received by 27 April 2018.

We are seeking the views of anyone with interest in these matters on these proposals. Please pass this message on to others who might be interested.

If you have any questions about this, please email [email protected] with ‘Taxi Tariff review’ in the subject line.

Yours sincerely,

Tweets sent out from @tfltph

mailto:[email protected]

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