PRIVATE hire drivers based in London have condemned a new policy that forces them to pass two English language tests to work in the capital.

Independent Workers of Great Britain (IWGB) union members called the changes “discriminatory” and “unfair” against drivers today.

They argue that 94 per cent of drivers in London are from black and ethnic minority backgrounds and around 82 per cent are migrant workers.

The two tests, which drivers must now pass to get their public carriage office licence, were introduced in October 2021. 

They cost £36 to sit and £16 to resit, but drivers are only allowed to do so once.

The fees also come on top of other licence application costs, which Transport for London (TfL) estimates reach a total of around £477, IWGB said.

Drivers are calling the tests an “indirect attack on the non-white and immigrant communities” who have contributed to London’s economy for years.

Uber driver and IWGB united private hire drivers’ branch chairman Nader Awaad said: “Many of us private hire drivers have driven for years without any problems or complaints, satisfying customers and helping to keep London’s economy going. 

“This change in policy disproportionately affects migrant workers, and will see thousands of drivers burdened with extra costs and worries, to the disadvantage of both workers and customers alike.”

The drivers are calling for subsidised English lessons, the removal of the resit limit, and the ability to use documented evidence as proof of the English language requirement, which was allowed before the new policy. 

They are also asking people to sign a petition directed at London mayor Sadiq Khan here.

Tfl was contacted for comment.