Taxi Driver Online

Almost just included this in the thread about the crowdfunder...

Anyway, nothing particularly new here, but was wondering how it had resurfaced...see post below.


'TAXI TAX' Brits could be slapped with higher fares just to get to hospital under new ‘Taxi Tax’

https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/35523102/ ... -hospital/

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is under growing pressure to block the charge

BRITS could be slapped with higher fares just to get to hospital under a new “Taxi Tax”, campaigners warn.

Campaigners say a 20 per cent VAT hike on minicabs would “price many out of vital journeys” and cost the NHS tens of millions each year.

CEO of Disability Rights UK Kamran Mallick said: “For many disabled people, private hire vehicles are not a luxury, they are essential.

"They provide a vital means of transport where public options are inaccessible or unreliable.”

Polling for the Stop the Taxi Tax campaign found 53 per cent of disabled people or those with long-term health conditions used minicabs or ride-hailing apps to attend medical appointments in the past year.

And Bolt data shows a 62 per cent jump in trips to Birmingham Children’s Hospital since January 2023, with sharp rises in Nottingham and London too.

A spokesperson for the Stop the Taxi Campaign, said: “The NHS’ own figures show how vital minicabs and PHVs are for helping patients access medical appointments.

“Increasing fares won’t just make life harder for disabled and vulnerable people, it will put even more strain on stretched NHS budgets and potentially cost the health service tens of millions of pounds.”

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is under growing pressure to block the charge, which follows a High Court ruling that could force operators to add VAT to every fare.

Previously, most minicab drivers were classed as self-employed and didn’t meet the £90,000 threshold for VAT - but the court ruled operators are the ones providing the service, meaning VAT could now apply across the board.

Leading trade bodies - including the Federation of Small Businesses - warn the change could force 25,000 drivers off the road and hammer already-struggling high streets.

The Treasury says it is still reviewing responses to its consultation.

Wasn't going to bother with that, since I've now made the point about a million times

But, in fact, it's worth highlighting it, because the imputed difference there is what the whole thing is about, basically - why are 'ride-hailing apps' subject to VAT, while 'minicabs' aren't?

So had a look at the crowdfunder, and someone's donate £10, so it's now up to £340

But also noticed this update, and it's about 10 days old now. And states that the case will be heard in about 10 days' time...


https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/protectfares/

I suspect the Supreme Court took the view that those refused participation wouldn’t add anything to what Uber will put forwards.

And TBH I think the court is bang on.

But it does tickle me seeing those that previously took Uber to the Supreme Court now want to buddy up with them.

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IDFIMH