According to RBC, citing The Guardian, in April the services of the famous London black cabs will likely become 5.6% more expensive, outpacing inflation. But since the cost of a ride in London taxis is already almost the highest in the world, by decision of Mayor Ken Livingstone, the new tariffs will be recognized as “maximum.” That is, now the passenger will officially have the full right to ask the cabman for a discount. However, he risks receiving a dose of contempt from each of the taxi drivers known for their arrogance.
Cab drivers, in turn, consider the high fare quite justified, since their own work license is not cheap. Moreover, to thoroughly study the labyrinth of London streets, the amazing knowledge of which only taxi drivers can truly boast of, takes several years.
A representative of the London organization Public Carriage Office, which licenses taxis, said he considers the word “bargaining” not quite appropriate. “If passengers start negotiating with a taxi driver in the middle of a traffic-clogged street, it will completely hamper traffic movement.”
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