 |
 |
Keeping London cabs the best in the world
April 25, 2003 12:00 AM
London LibDem Euro-MP Sarah Ludford has welcomed an assurance from Mayor Livingstone that the review of the standards set for our cabs will not lead to a watering down of the world class service for which the London trade is renowned.
The Mayor is reviewing the "Conditions of Fitness" which specify the requirements black cabs must meet to be licensed in the capital. There have been concerns that he will agree to lower the standards, allowing cheap van conversions to be licensed rather than purpose built vehicles, threatening the 100% accessibility to disabled people of the current service.
But the Mayor has responded with an assurance that all licensed taxis in London should be able to accommodate wheelchairs and that conditions will "continue to meet the needs of those with mobility, sight, hearing and other disabilities. Indeed, where possible I would like to see these facilities enhanced".
Said Sarah:
"I am delighted that Ken has given this assurance that world-leading standards will not be lowered. Black cabs, as well as being a London institution, perform an excellent service which can be enjoyed by all, regardless of impaired mobility.
"It would have been doubly sad if the 100% accessibility record of licensed cabs were lost during this, the European Year of People with Disabilities.
"Of course, any company that manufactures a vehicle that meets the standard should be free to compete in an open market but the standards should be maintained at a high level. Our cabs, and drivers, are the envy of many cities round the world; we need to make sure they stay that way."
What would you like to do next?
-
Subscribe for updates
Follow the party's activity on...
- Twitter:
- Liberal Democrats
- Facebook:
- Liberal Democrats
- YouTube:
- Liberal Democrats