A growing coalition of drivers, charities, businesses, and concerned citizens warns that a proposed 20% VAT on private hire vehicle trips will harm the most vulnerable, reduce safety, and cripple essential services.
As the UK faces the possibility of a new 20% VAT on private hire vehicle (PHV) journeys, often dubbed the “Taxi Tax”, public concern is mounting. This proposed consumer tax, which would directly increase the cost of every minicab trip, has sparked a nationwide backlash for the far-reaching consequences it could unleash across communities.
A Tax on Those Who Rely Most on PHVs
Minicabs and private hire vehicles are not a luxury—they are a necessity for millions across the UK. Whether it’s commuting to work, attending hospital appointments, or getting home safely at night, many depend on these services daily.
According to recent polling, 71% of Brits oppose the proposed VAT, while 67% agree that the tax unfairly targets working people. It’s a sentiment shared widely by disability rights groups, women’s safety organisations, businesses, and industry professionals who argue the levy will disproportionately affect society’s most vulnerable.
Disability Rights UK warns that higher costs will severely restrict mobility for people with disabilities, while The Survivors Trust, a leading women’s safety charity, has raised alarm that fewer affordable travel options could force women to resort to less safe means of transport at night.
These concerns are underpinned by troubling statistics:
- 37% of Brits have used a PHV for a medical appointment in the past year – rising to 53% for those with a disability or long-term health condition.
- 75% worry the tax would make it harder for elderly or vulnerable friends and family to attend these appointments.
- 75% of night-time users, including 80% of women, say cost increases would impact their ability to get home safely.
A Blow to Drivers and Local Economies
The potential impact extends beyond passengers. Industry data reveals that over 25,000 drivers—more than 10% of the workforce—would consider leaving the sector if the tax were introduced, shrinking the already strained PHV fleet. Fewer drivers mean longer waits, reduced coverage, and lost livelihoods.
The knock-on effect would be particularly harsh for small businesses, hospitality venues, and the night time economy—industries that rely heavily on accessible transport for staff and patrons alike.
76% of Brits also believe that the tax would hurt rural and underserved areas, where public transport is limited and minicabs are often the only option.
A Broad Coalition Against the Taxi Tax
This growing resistance has coalesced into a powerful coalition of over 100 PHV operators, women’s rights advocates, disability campaigners, businesses, and community leaders. Their message is clear: the Taxi Tax is not just a transportation issue—it’s a public safety, economic, and social equity issue.
Add Your Voice
As pressure mounts on policymakers, the campaign is urging the public to take action.
Sign the petition today and share the campaign to help stop the Taxi Tax before it puts lives, livelihoods, and communities at risk.
