Government to introduce extra taxi licensing guidelines across the country

MP Sarah Champion will push for more detailed background checks on drivers and training on how to spot signs of grooming included.

New Rotherham Borough Council rules mean drivers need to operate CCTV during journeys from next month and activate audio equipment when carrying an unaccompanied child or vulnerable adult.

Ms Champion said: “We have a responsibility to keep all children safe. It has been two years since the Rotherham abuse scandal, and only now the Government has listened and taken action to make the taxi profession safer for the most vulnerable children. 

“Whilst I welcome this decision, it is disgraceful that the Government has taken this long to act.”

The Jay report highlighted the prominent role of the taxi trade in CSE. A new clause in the Policing and Crime Bill will require local authorities to consider CSE when issuing taxi licences.

Barnardo’s chief executive Javed Khan said: “New measures to make taxis safer for vulnerable children at risk of exploitation are needed urgently. 

“Whilst the vast majority of taxi drivers are law abiding, taxis and private hire vehicles have been linked to many cases of child sexual exploitation.”