Mrs Lina Chiam asked the Minister for Transport (a) what is the current number of London cabs on our roads; and (b) what is the reason for SMRT Corporation's plan to phase out its fleet of London cabs next year.

Mr Lui Tuck Yew: Currently, SMRT has a fleet of 15 London Taxis. Twelve of these are on the roads as three of its London taxis are not rented out. SMRT had indicated that its earlier decision to phase out its fleet of London Taxis was due to commercial reasons.

As I have updated the House on 16 January, LTA is currently supporting MCYS to study the transport needs of the disabled and review the relevant policies through working with the Enabling Masterplan Steering Committee and related stakeholders. Details will be announced when ready. In the interim, LTA has worked with SMRT to extend the statutory lifespan of all the 15 units of the London Taxis for an additional year up to March 2013.

Written Answers to Questions

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