Posted on the 28th October 2025 in PHTM News

TAXI CCTV PLANS SPARK INVASION OF PRIVACY FEARS AMONG HUNTINGDONSHIRE DRIVERS

A consultation into the potential use of CCTV in taxis across Huntingdonshire has exposed deep divisions and raised significant privacy concerns among drivers.

Huntingdonshire District Council sought views from the public and the taxi trade on allowing CCTV in licensed vehicles, a move inspired by the Department for Transport's view that cameras can provide "additional deterrence to prevent potential risk to public safety" and a "safer environment for the benefit of taxi/private hire vehicle passengers and drivers."

The council is not currently seeking to mandate CCTV, but to permit its use under specific conditions.

However, the consultation received 131 responses, with a clear majority of drivers opposing the idea:

In support of CCTV

  • Drivers - 9

  • Operator - 2

  • Both driver and operator - 14

  • Public - 22

Object against CCTV

  • Drivers - 65

  • Operator - 1

  • Both driver and operator - 3

  • Public - 13

Concerns were strongly voiced in submitted comments. One driver argued it would be an "invasion of privacy," adding: "One of the joys of taking pre-booked customers on holiday is that you build a relationship with them and have good conversations, and I think this would change if passengers knew they were being recorded."

While many drivers acknowledged the safety benefits, they fear the maintenance costs - estimated to be £500 to £1,000 per system - would damage their business.

Drivers also worried that customers discussing "sensitive or personal matters" may feel "intimidated" if they knew they were being recorded.

The council acknowledged that an increase in costs for the trade would "inevitably" be passed onto customers.

The Licensing Committee at Huntingdonshire District Council has recommended that a more detailed consultation with both the public and the trade is required.

They also highlighted the recent Casey Report, which found that weaknesses in taxi licensing regulations are "undermining efforts" to prevent child sexual exploitation across England and Wales.

In light of this, the committee noted the possibility that national standards may be introduced soon, which the council would need to align with if they come into force.


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