Written question asked by Dan Jarvis (Labour) on Wednesday, 1 July 2020, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 July 2020 (named day). It was answered by Baroness Maclean of Redditch (Conservative) on Monday, 6 July 2020 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Taxis: Coronavirus

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what plans he has to make the use of face coverings in taxis compulsory in response to the covid-19 outbreak.

Answer: The Secretary of State’s announcement that from 15 June face coverings will be required while using public transport in England does not cover taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs); both are already able to implement measures to protect drivers and passengers including a requirement for passengers to wear a face covering (clearly taking account of those who cannot do so, such as people with disabilities). Taxi drivers are able to refuse carriage to passengers where it is reasonable to do so, this might include those that are able but refuse to wear a face covering. PHV operators can make the wearing of face covering a condition of hiring. We are aware of PHV operators that are doing this and requiring the drivers they work with to do the same.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 67659
Session: 2019-21
Related items: Taxis: Coronavirus
Monday, 20 July 2020
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Disease control Protective clothing Taxis Coronavirus
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk