The major changes taxi drivers could face under new licensing reforms

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The Independent seeks donations to fund journalists, maintain on-the-ground reporting, and produce documentaries while keeping content free of paywalls so reporting remains accessible. Donations enable sending reporters to gather facts and present multiple perspectives, supported by trust across the political spectrum and funding from those who can afford it. Separately, proposed reforms in the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill will impose national minimum standards and rigorous vetting for taxi drivers to address out-of-area working. The measures prioritise safeguarding passengers and improving accessibility after Baroness Casey's audit highlighted many cases of group-based child sexual exploitation linked to taxi services. Ministers argue broad powers are needed to capture legislative complexities.

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