TAXI fares in Huddersfield could rise as businesses struggle to cope with soaring fuel prices.

Amjad Nadeem, of Kirklees Hackney Carriage Association, last night revealed his group had asked for a price rise to help cabbies cope with the rising cost of petrol.

“There’s nothing we can do except ask for an increase,” he said.

Mr Nadeem said the association had sent a survey to its 250 members, 80% of whom operate in Huddersfield.

“The response we got is that 97 to 98% of drivers want a meter increase.

“We haven’t set a figure for a specific increase”

Hackney cabs in Kirklees have a starting tariff of £2 per journey from 6am to 11pm and £2.50 between 11pm and 6am.

Mr Nadeem said: “We aren’t asking for a very large increase because we’re aware of the economic situation. We need to strike a balance.

“Our fares are competitive. If four people share a cab from the town centre to Netherton it will cost them about £6, but if they all get the bus they will pay £8 between them.”

Kirklees will rule this month whether to allow an increase in fares.

“The ball is in the council’s court,” said Mr Nadeem.

Yesterday the Examiner reported that unleaded petrol was on sale for 132.9p a litre at Hartshead Moor services – the equivalent of £6 a gallon.