Cab drivers threaten legal action over mystery fires

The makers of London black cabs could be sued for damages by 800 drivers whose taxis were ordered off the road in the wake of a series of mystery fires.

The Licensed Taxi Drivers Association said it was unhappy about how long an investigation into the cause of the fires would last. An inquiry was launched after seven cabs burst into flames in the capital this summer.

The association said it would "pursue those responsible" for compensation and that this could include manufacturer London Taxis International.

Affected TX4 models cost between £30,000 and £40,0000 including finance charges. If the association pursues a full claim, Manganese Bronze, which wholly owns LTI, could face a liability of more than £30 million.

John Russell, chief executive of Manganese, said the firm did not yet know how long the investigation would take. He said the inquiry would establish responsibility for the fires and how much compensation would be paid.

The fires, which did not injure anyone, are also being investigated by the Public Carriage Office and Transport for London.