Taxi chiefs in plea over fare hikes

TAXI trade representatives plan to lobby city councillors to back their bid for a hike in cab rates plus a £2 airport pick-up charge ahead of Wednesday’s vote on the first fare increase in three years.

The Edinburgh Licensed Taxi Partnership wants regulatory committee members to allow an 8.4 per cent rise and an increase in the pick up charge from 80p to £2.

The trade’s request is lower than the 10.5 per cent rise in operating costs since 2008, but cabbies have asked for it in the hope that in exchange councillors would back the increased airport fee.

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However, officials have advised councillors to refuse the increased airport fee, but accept the lower fare rise.

The trade has warned that this will put a squeeze on drivers and lead to slipping standards because it will not cover their increased costs.

n A headline in Friday’s Evening News incorrectly suggested taxi drivers were trying to block the fares increase. We apologise for the error and any confusion caused.