Taxi Driver Online

I have had an email from one of our licensing officers to say that a few drivers have asked about a tariff review in light of the fuel price and would I be prepared to assist them in putting the case for a review. I have said that if asked I would assist. However I was talking to a driver this morning who was not a happy bunny at all saying (the old chestnut) I am opposed to a rise because it will kill the trade. I pointed out that she said the same last time and it made little difference and that we put our prices up in April to more than 10% above the Hackney fares and we are very busy so that argument does not stack up. She was adamant that she doesn't, and several other drivers agree, that they don't agree with any change. The price of diesel at the last increase was £1.30 per litre.

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Grandad,

Well then they can object when it goes out to the public.

And then councillors can consider those objections, as well as the reasons for a rise, and come to a decision.

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IDFIMH

We (Chester licensed Hackney association) are currently consulting with our members (and non members) with a view to a tariff increase. We haven’t had one in 4 years, the pandemic put a block on the last planned one. It looks like we’ll be asking for a rise of 40p on the flag fall (rising to £3.50 and £3.90 T1 and T2) and 10% on the yardage. Most drivers are in favour of this option. There was talk of introducing an inflation linked increase every two years but I think the present inflation rate would give councillors a heart attack if that went ahead.

Well it’s a maximum you can charge, if they think it’s to dear they can discount it, but I doubt they will, a prime example is mot’s, the DVSA increase it and they safeguard the income, councils have a duty to make sure taxi drivers get a decent wage as they set the fares.

I get fed up telling drivers this. I just don't understand why drivers don't want to earn a living wage, well unless it would affect their benefit claims.

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Grandad,

They have the flawed impression that all their customers will suddenly walk because taxi fares go up 5 or 10 pence in the pound.

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IDFIMH

In fact I very much doubt if any driver has ever said that ALL their fares will walk, irrespective of how big a rise (or hike) has been proposed.

It's a bit more subtle than that, but no real point in going over it all again.

as if they declare it all anyway?

as if HMRC/DWP/DSS have the manpower and will to bother looking>

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Of all the things ive lost, i miss my mind the most