Isle of Man taxi plans supported in consultation

Proposals to allow ply-for-hire taxis to operate throughout the Isle of Man have received public support during a government consultation exercise.

At present taxis are only allowed to pick up fares within their licensing district.

The Department of Infrastructure asked people for their views on plans for an all-island taxi trade.

The results of an online survey and written responses revealed that 78% of respondents favoured the move.

'Difficult to proceed'

In the online survey, 264 out of 296 respondents said they wanted all licensed taxis to be able to pick up passengers throughout the island.

The department received 100 written responses, of which 45 were in favour and 31 against the proposal.

Minister Phil Gawne said that Tynwald was in favour of the changes.

He said: "It now appears a majority of the population is in favour as well.

"Unfortunately with legislation it's often very difficult to proceed at the pace politically that we'd like to proceed, but I would certainly want to see the taxi legislation brought before Tynwald well in advance of the next election."