Cabbies attack new fare rises

Drivers of black cabs have attacked higher fares that came into force at the weekend, claiming they will inflict further damage on a trade already suffering from a downturn in the economy.

Sections of the industry claim that since 11 September demand for taxis has plummeted by up to 40 per cent. They say unless Mr Livingstone ditches the new fares there will be a further - more damaging - downturn in trade.

The Mayor's new tariff means that from 8pm to 6am fares rise by up to 60 per cent in a move aimed at encouraging more black cabs onto the streets at night.

But two major taxi firms today appealed to Mr Livingstone to scrap the new fares until the economy is stronger.

In a letter to the Mayor, Dial-a-Cab and Radio Taxis Ltd said while visitor numbers were considerably down the business climate was too "fragile" to take a hike that could see travellers paying an extra £3 on a journey from Holborn to Shepherd's Bush.

The 1,100-member London Cab Drivers Club also appealed for the fare rise to be shelved, claiming that trade for some drivers was down by 40 per cent. Chairman Alan Fleming, said: "The taxi trade does not want an increase and asked the Mayor to postpone it."

However, the 7,000-member London Taxi Drivers Association is behind the new fare structure.

Bob Oddy, general secretary of the LTDA, said: "It is nonsense to suggest trade has been 40 per cent down. It is more like 10 to 15 per cent down at the moment.

The Mayor's office said: "Some taxi radio circuit companies may be struggling due to a decline in corporate demand, but the change only affects fares after 8pm."