Havering cab drivers are anxiously awaiting clarity on whether the borough's potential departure from London to rejoin Essex could devastate their livelihoods. Following Reform UK's victory in the local elections, the party has revived discussions about 'Hexit'—a proposal for Havering to leave the Greater London Authority and become a unitary authority within Essex.
Uncertain Future for Licensed Drivers
Currently, taxi drivers in Havering operate under Transport for London (TfL) regulations, which allow them to work across London. However, if Havering rejoins Essex, these drivers could lose their TfL licenses and be barred from working in the capital. Pat Smith, a 51-year-old cab driver, expressed deep concern: "For us, with the London taxi scheme, it is TfL-controlled. If we become an Essex council, will they get rid of it? If it does, then we will have nothing."
Darren Grayson, 53, echoed these fears: "If they took us into Essex, they probably wouldn't allow us to work here. Many local people wanted change, which is why they voted for Reform in the local election. They want to know if they can change things here before voting for them in the national election."
Political Context and Public Sentiment
The idea of Havering leaving London has been championed by local MP Andrew Rosindell for years. Nigel Farage, speaking outside Havering Town Hall after Reform's victory, noted that residents "feel that their association is with Essex and ever since 1965 have slightly resented being part of Greater London." He argued that "people ought to have the choice to make a decision on that."
However, the party's stance has wavered. Reports suggest Nigel Farage was initially "really enthusiastic" about splitting outer London boroughs, including Bromley, from the GLA. But as elections approached, the party appeared to backtrack, and its failure to make significant gains in Bromley may further dampen support for Hexit.
Potential Consequences of Hexit
If Havering were to leave London, the borough would lose access to key services and benefits, such as the TfL Freedom Pass for the elderly and the Metropolitan Police force. For cab drivers, the loss of TfL licensing would mean they could no longer operate in East London, effectively destroying their customer base. Many drivers feel that Romford's high street has already declined, with Grayson lamenting: "In the cab trade, we currently have no work here because nobody wants to come to Romford anymore. We've been forgotten."
Drivers are calling for clear proposals before they consider voting for Reform in a general election. Smith emphasized: "We need to know what their plans are before we vote. We need to see the proposals before we can decide whether to vote for them, as that will have a significant impact on us."
