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UK to Ban Taxi Rides for Asylum Seekers’ Medical Trips

11/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The United Kingdom government will ban asylum seekers from taxis for medical appointments from February 2026.
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) investigation highlighted costs, including a £600 taxi for a 250-mile GP trip.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said taxis will be authorized in exceptional circumstances.
Exemptions will apply for people with disabilities or chronic illnesses.
The government aims to end asylum hotels by the next election, with 36,273 residents.

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Story summary

The United Kingdom government will ban asylum seekers from taxis for medical appointments from February 2026.
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) investigation highlighted costs, including a £600 taxi for a 250-mile GP trip.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said taxis will be authorized in exceptional circumstances.
Exemptions will apply for people with disabilities or chronic illnesses.
The government aims to end asylum hotels by the next election, with 36,273 residents.