Block on asylum seekers taking cabs for medical trips

Home secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced a ban on asylum seekers using taxis for most medical journeys.

- JESSICA COATES

Under the new rules, taxi use for medical travel will be restricted to exceptional, evidence-based cases, including physical disability, pregnancy, or serious illness. Such journeys will now require direct Home Office approval.

This policy change follows a recent BBC investigation that revealed “widespread” taxi use by asylum seekers, prompting a Home Office review of transport arrangements. All service providers are required to stop using taxis for these medical journeys from February.