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Written question asked by Iqbal Mohamed (Independent (affiliation)) on Monday, 8 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 10 June 2026. It was answered by Lilian Greenwood (Labour) on Tuesday, 16 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Taxis: Software

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of the use of private hiring booking apps and navigation applications by taxi and private hire vehicle drivers on (a) road safety and (b) driver distraction.

Answer

The Department for Transport has not issued specific guidance to developers of navigation or private hire applications but engages with industry and monitors how these technologies are used in practice.

The law is clear; drivers are responsible for maintaining proper control of their vehicle and always paying attention to the road. It is illegal to hold and use a mobile phone or similar device whilst driving, including when a vehicle is stopped in traffic or at traffic lights. Where a driver is distracted or not in proper control of their vehicle, enforcement is an operational matter for the police.

The Government will continue to assess the benefits of such technologies while supporting the development of safer, distraction‑minimising systems.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
7742
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Software Roads Safety Taxis
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk