Taxi drivers and passengers encouraged to wear face coverings
North East Lincolnshire Council are urging taxi drivers and passengers to wear face coverings, such as a mask, during journeys.
As of Monday 15 June, it is a legal requirement for passengers on other forms of public transport to wear face coverings, however taxis are exempt.
The council are recommending that face coverings be worn wherever possible to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
The Government also advises that people should wear a face covering in enclosed spaces where it is difficult to maintain social distancing such as taxis and private hire vehicles.
A taxi driver or private hire vehicle operator may be entitled to refuse to accept a passenger if they are not wearing a face covering.
A statement from the Department for Transport says:
“The Secretary of State for Transport’s announcement that from 15 June face coverings will be required while using public transport in England does not cover taxis and private hire vehicles as the trade is already able to require (with limited exemptions) passengers to wear these.
“Taxi drivers are already able to refuse carriage to passengers where it is reasonable to do so.
“This might include those that are able but refuse to wear a face covering. Private hire vehicle operators can make the wearing of face covering a condition of hiring.”
Face coverings are not required to be worn by children under the age of three or those who may find it difficult to wear one correctly, such as passengers with breathing difficulties, young children or disabled passengers.
Contact Gi Grimsby
Email us: news@gi-media.co.uk
Follows us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest local stories, breaking news and to join the conversation