Mandatory CCTV in licensed vehicles

Overview

The Department for Transport (DfT) published its Statutory Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Standards in July 2020 with a strong focus to protect all passengers and users of taxis and private hire transport services.

The statutory guidance makes it clear that the Government expects the recommendations contained within it to be implemented unless there is a compelling local reason not to.

The DfT’s Statutory Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Standards states that:

“All licensing authorities should consult to identify if there are local circumstances which indicate that the installation of CCTV in vehicles would have either a positive or an adverse net effect on the safety of taxi and private hire vehicle users, including children or vulnerable adults, and taking into account potential privacy issues.

The DfT’s view is that CCTV can provide additional deterrence to prevent the potential risk to public safety when passengers travel in taxis and private hire vehicles and has investigative value when it does. Its view is that “The use of CCTV can provide a safer environment for the benefit of taxi/private hire vehicle passengers and drivers.”

To this end, the licensing authorities in Gloucestershire are conducting an initial consultation to identify if there are local circumstances which indicate that the installation of CCTV in vehicles would have either a positive or an adverse net effect on the safety of taxi and private hire vehicle users, including children or vulnerable adults. In addition, the consultation is seeking views on whether it would be proportionate for the the installation of CCTV to be made a mandatory condition of a vehicle licence. Any decision to make it mandatory condition will take account of the benefits to public safety as well as any adverse effects including potential privacy concerns and costs to the licensed vehicle holder.