This morning (Friday 15th May), we learned of the re-introduction of the Congestion Charge in London, the proposed increase to £15 and extending the hours in the evenings and to weekends. Although parts of the media were briefed, the industry was not afforded the courtesy of being warned, something which we have now formally complained about.
Within an hour of being notified, we had briefed our legal advisors, set up an online conference call with members and prepared a plan of action. After that we partook in an hour-long conference call with Transport for London Taxi & Private Hire (TfL TPH) on the matter. As soon as that concluded, we had another online conference call and following that we sent out an e-alert to our members and partners, as clearly many of them did not know.
Currently there is a blame game going on between Transport for London and the government, but as the LPHCA is apolitical (not directly involved in politics) we are endeavouring to stop these regressive measures continuing or being brought into place, regardless of who introduced/proposed them.
As part of the action plan, our Chairman Steve Wright MBE and the LPHCA's Legal Advisor Neil Morley (of Travis Morley) have put in writing critical questions to senior TfL officers and their legal team and we will be updating members and partners regarding the outcome and next steps. Our members and partners can see this letter in the 'Members Only' area.
Update: 26/05/20 - Congestion Charge Petition
Some of our Members have set up a petition titled ‘Stop Sadiq Khan Congestion Charge Price Increase and Keep Weekends Free’. In a matter of days this petition quickly reached over 30,000 signatories.
It is our view that as many people as possible should sign this petition and everyone in or connected to our trade should pass this on through every possible channel open to them, including word of mouth, e-mail and all social media.
Please click on the link below to sign the petition and/or to share with others.