Clashing MP’s voice their differences over London Taxis. Farage and Khan don’t agree. Here’s why the taxis have become a debated topic amongst some MP’s just days before elections
No Love for England
Recently, in a statement over X (former Twitter) by the leader of Reform U.K, Nigel Farage, he accuses Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, of “hating England.” His comments were in response to Khan’s ban on taxis flying England’s flag during the UEFA championships this year.
The Reason Behind the Ban
According to reports, Khan banned the flags during this football season because they were ” distracting” for taxis and other drivers.
Unreasonable and Unfair Treatment
“…the banning is unreasonable and unfair,” the National Private Hire Association Cabbies Organisation spokesperson said in an interview with the Express UK media.
No Flags at All
The TFL made it clear that the ban is not only on England’s flag but it also applies to all flags.
No Inappropriate Signage
Like the flags, no inappropriate stickers and banners are allowed.
We Understand, But We Back the Nation
The spokesperson also explained that they understood certain things, such as “unauthorised signage,” could result in conflicts, but the flag didn’t represent a specific team.
Not a Regional Flag
He said, “… this is not a regional flag to support an individual team, which may lead to conflict, this is supporting the Nation’s Team at the Euros.”
Repercussions for Showing off English Flag During Euros
Transport For London (TFL), which is under the leadership of London Mayor Sadiq Khan, has issued a stern warning to more than 120,000 taxi drivers. One of the consequences of flying the red and white St George Cross includes losing their cab driver’s license.
For Safety – No Flags
Flying the English flag is prohibited. It is a safety precaution that all taxi drivers are expected to obey. This was one of the warnings issued by the TFL.
Keep Passengers Safe
TFL commented that the safety of the passengers was important. Removing the distractions of the flag would increase passenger safety, and drivers would be more focused on the road.
Only Official Signage
During the Euros, cabs can only have official signage and stickers. No driver can celebrate by flying the St George’s Cross.
Reviewed Cab License
Another rule that cab drivers are dealing with is the chance of having their driver’s license reviewed.
The Time Process to Have a License Review
A reviewed license requires a procedural investigation by the licensing authority, according to Hinkley & Bosworth Borough Council. The review addresses factors related to public safety, public nuisance prevention, protecting children from harm, and preventing crime and disorder.
Drivers Are Not Buying It
Taxi drivers have voiced feelings of dismay towards the no-English flag ruling, and some referred to it as a “woke society” for not allowing them to fly a small flag during this highly celebrated Euros Championship.
Cab Drivers Express Their Disappointment
“How can a little flag be a distraction compared to the great big advert on the side of my cab.”
Nonsense Rule
Another cab driver named Fred Perkins, also commented, “It’s nonsense, it’s all coming down from Khan at the top.”
The Ban Is Hypocritical
Taxi drivers have also commented that their black cabs could display large sponsor signage but couldn’t display support during Euros with flags or stickers. “It is hypocritical,” one member said.
“Woke Mentality”
Another member of the National Private Hire Association said that it is “woke mentality” and that people find England’s flag offensive.
The Contrast in Manchester
There was also a contrast made between Manchester City and London, and private cab companies in Manchester were free to fly the England flag. However, the same freedom was not allowed in London.
Lack of Common Sense
Furthermore, in the reported interview, the spokesperson also said that it is common sense to allow the England flag to fly during Euros. “The ban should be overturned,” he added.
Closing Thoughts
Despite upset feelings among cab drivers in London, they were given strict warnings to comply and prevent the consequences.
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The post Accusations Fly as Nigel Farage Accuses Sadiq Khan of “Hating England” first appeared on Edge Media.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ceri Breeze.