Why are phvs not allowed decal advertising but taxis are?
Request ID: FOI-1582-2223 Date published: 21 October 2022
You asked
Why are phvs not allowed decal/bodywork advertising but taxis are?
This appears to be anti-competitive discrimination.
Please provide evidence to show why you do not deem it legally discriminatory.
We answered
Our ref: FOI-1582-2223/GH Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 1 October 2022 asking for information about advertising on taxi and private hire services. Your request has been considered under the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and our information access policy. You asked: Why are phvs not allowed decal/bodywork advertising but taxis are? This appears to be anti-competitive discrimination. Please provide evidence to show why you do not deem it legally discriminatory. Unfortunately we do not hold the information you have requested. The Freedom of Information Act allows you to request recorded information held by Transport for London. TfL does not have to answer your question if it would require the creation of new information or the provision of a judgement, explanation, advice or opinion that was not already recorded at the time of your request. Regulation 8 of the Private Hire Vehicles (London PHV Licences) Regulations 2004 refers to advertising, signs and notices and states: 8. [No signs or advertising material shall be displayed on or from a private hire vehicle], except: (a) badges or emblems on the radiator or windscreen which are issued by an organisation— (i) providing vehicle repair or recovery services; or (ii) concerned with driving skills and qualifications; [..] (b) a sign displayed temporarily on a stationary vehicle which contains, and contains only: (i) the name and address of a person operating the private hire vehicle, or the name under which he carries on that business and its address; and (ii) the name of a passenger for whom a private hire booking has been [made; or] [(c) other signs or advertising material in such locations and for such purposes as the licensing authority may approve from time to time for either: (i) specified private hire vehicles; or (ii) all private hire vehicles.] If you are not satisfied with this response please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal. Yours sincerely Graham Hurt FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
