Overview

This bill aims to regulate pedicabs in Greater London. It grants Transport for London (TfL) the power to create regulations covering licensing, fares, safety, and operational standards for pedicabs and their drivers, with a focus on ensuring public safety and preventing exploitation.

Description

The Pedicabs (London) Bill empowers TfL to create regulations for pedicabs in Greater London. These regulations will cover several key areas:

Licensing:

TfL will license pedicabs, drivers, and operators, setting conditions, durations, and processes for renewal, variation, suspension, or revocation. Licensing will include checks on immigration status, similar to those for private hire vehicles.

Fares and Other Matters:

Regulations will set rules on fares, their display to passengers, and payment methods. They will also cover eligibility requirements for drivers, pedicab quality and safety, equipment, appearance, testing, speed limits, driver working conditions, and driver conduct (including noise levels).

Operational Restrictions:

TfL can prohibit pedicabs from operating in certain places or times and restrict the number of pedicabs operating in specific areas.

Enforcement:

The bill creates offenses for providing false information or failing to comply with regulations. Penalties include fines and the possibility of fixed penalty notices and civil penalties. TfL may also seize and dispose of pedicabs that violate the regulations. Police can also assist with enforcement.

Appeals:

The bill ensures a right to request reconsideration of decisions and to appeal to a magistrates’ court regarding licensing decisions, civil penalties, or action taken against pedicabs.

Private Hire Vehicle Legislation:

The bill amends existing legislation to clarify that pedicabs are not considered private hire vehicles, unless power-assisted.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify a direct cost to the UK government. However, TfL will likely incur costs related to administration and enforcement of the new regulations, potentially requiring additional funding. The cost will be recoverable through license fees.

Groups Affected

• Pedicab drivers and operators: Will be subject to new licensing requirements, regulations on fares, working conditions, and conduct.
• Pedicab passengers: Will benefit from increased safety and potentially clearer fare structures.
• Transport for London (TfL): Will be responsible for creating and enforcing the regulations, incurring administrative costs.
• Local residents and businesses: May be affected by restrictions on pedicab operation in certain areas.
• Law enforcement: May have additional responsibilities related to enforcement of the regulations.

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