TfL ban London Taxis from flying England flags during Euros – London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

Taxi drivers have expressed frustration over a ban on flying England flags during the Euros.

Cabbies across the rest of the nation are not affected, with many flying the flag to show support for the Three Lions’ campaign in Germany.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s Transport for London (TfL) authorities state that the St George’s Cross could potentially “distract” other drivers and cause accidents.

The capital’s 125,000 drivers have been warned they could face serious penalties, including losing their black cab licence if they display the red and white banner.

Drivers argue that the flags are no more distracting than the colourful advertisements on vehicles.

Chris Richards, taxi insurance expert at Simplyquote.co.uk, commented, “The flags are simply a way for drivers to show support for their national team and are not a significant distraction compared to the large advertisements on many cabs.”

Cabbies across the rest of the nation are not affected, with many proudly flying the flag to show support for the Three Lions’ campaign in Germany.

London’s 125,000 black cab, taxi, private hire, and Uber drivers have been barred by TfL from displaying mini flags – and even stickers – of any country.

TfL’s rules only permit “official taxi signs and stickers” to be displayed on vehicles.

One driver said, “It’s frustrating. This decision seems to come from the top, as Khan oversees these regulations. It feels excessive to prohibit small flags when large adverts are allowed.”

David Lawrie, director of the National Private Hire Association cabbies’ organisation, which represents hundreds of London drivers, added, “This rule seems unnecessary.

“The England flag should not be seen as offensive. If private hire vehicles in Manchester can display them, why can’t London drivers? The inconsistency is confusing. It would make sense to allow mini England flags for the Euros.”

TfL guidelines state: “Breaches of regulations could lead to a formal sanction – such as a warning, Fixed Penalty Notice, prosecution, or licence review.”

A TfL spokesman explained, “For the safety of all passengers and drivers, we have guidelines about what can be displayed in or on taxis and private hire vehicles. Only official signs and stickers can be displayed.

“Any other signage or flags are not permitted because they could cause a distraction to other drivers and road users. These guidelines apply to all flags and signage. We expect all taxi and private hire operators and drivers to comply.”