The future of the London black cab could be at risk as failure rates among trainee applicants seeking taxi licences have reach an all-time high, an investigation has revealed.
The drop out rate among candidates studying to become licensed cab drivers has reached 80%, according to a study the London Assembly's (LA) Transport Committee.
The Committee called for drastic reform of the Public Carriage Office (PCO), which hands out the licences, to safeguard the future of the Capital's licensed taxi trade. Its report shows that the average time taken to complete 'the Knowledge' - the rigorous examination required to receive a licence - has risen to an average of three years.
For many taxi licence candidates, who are hoping to purchase their cab and trade on its service as their own and primary business, the need for an alternative income often draws them out of the licensing programme.
"It is vital to ensure that people are not dropping out for any other reason than failing to meet the required standard," said Peter Hulme Cross AM, who conducted the investigation.
He said that the PCO, which sets the rigorous standards for obtaining a licence include knowing by memory every street within a six-mile radius of Charing Cross, is giving the appearance of a "closed shop."
Hulme Cross called for more transparency in the licensing system and asked mayor Ken Livingstone to appoint a representative from the licensed taxi trade to the board of Transport for London.
