Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if he will provide additional bespoke financial support for taxi drivers in response to the covid-19 outbreak similar to the Government support that has been provided to the hospitality sector to ensure that viable taxi drivers are able to continue to trade in the longer term.

The Government appreciates this is a challenging time for many sectors and individuals, including taxi and private hire drivers. With the resurgence of the virus and tightening of restrictions to protect people's health, we have taken further steps to protect jobs and businesses.

The Chancellor announced on 5 November the next income support grant which covers the period November to January, will now increase to 80% of average profits, up to £7,500. This will provide vital financial support to the roughly 80% of taxi and private hire drivers who are self-employed.

Drivers who are employed will benefit from an extension of the furlough scheme to the end of March. The government will continue to help pay people’s wages, up to 80% of the normal amount.