The Members of Parliament for the five Edinburgh constituencies – Tracy Gilbert MP, Dr Scott Arthur MP, Chris Murray MP, Ian Murray MP, and Christine Jardine MP – have written to the Chief Constable of Police Scotland and Neil Gray the Justice Secretary calling for their help in keeping the 2026 Taxi Drivers Outing on the road.
All MPs who represent the capital have expressed their deep concern after the cancellation of the 2026 Edinburgh Taxi Drivers’ Outing.
The move has been prompted by changes to National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) guidance on police motorcycle escort arrangements.
While the MPs recognise updated NPCC guidance on escort arrangements, they note that local commanders retain discretion to apply national guidance proportionately.
Organisers have said that without a police escort, the event would not be viable for many of the children who have life limiting illness or disabilities, and have therefore taken the difficult decision to cancel on safety and wellbeing grounds.
The MPs have now called upon Police Scotland to urgently consider an exemption to allow the traditional escort to proceed this year. The five Argue this would be a reasonable and proportionate use of discretion in line with NPCC guidance and Police Scotland’s commitment to community cohesion.
Tracy Gilbert MP said: “Everyone knows and loves the historic taxi outing, from children decorating taxis to the smiles and excitement it brings to families across Edinburgh. I urge Police Scotland to consider an exemption to allow this important event to go ahead.”
Chris Murray MP: “The announcement that this year’s Taxi Outing is set to be cancelled is beyond disappointing. My inbox has been flooded with emails about this decision, and the strength of feeling is absolutely clear. The Taxi Outing brings so much-needed joy to all those involved, and I strongly urge Police Scotland to take the necessary action needed to see this event go ahead.”
