Hackney cab fares across Bradford look likely to go up by more than 10p a mile due to the cost of fuel.

Bradford councillors are set to agree the increase after concern from cabbies who have not seen a rise in fares since 2001.

They say recent increases in fuel prices, insurance costs and the general pace of inflation have left many struggling to make ends meet.

C.D. Khalid, president of Bradford Hackney Carriage Association, said: "Over the last 12 months or so I have calculated that costs have increased by 27 per cent, and some of our boys are paying up to £4,000 in insurance.

"We are asking for about 10p a mile but 20p a mile would be more in line with our costs."

Under the proposals, fares would increase by about 9.5 per cent - an increase of about 25p for an average two-mile journey.

That would raise the cost from about £4.50 up to a maximum of about £4.80.

If approved, the changes could come into force on December 7.

A Council report to go before members next week states: "The overhead expenses of the trade (repairs, insurance and particularly fuel) have risen at a far greater level...over the past three years.

"It is considered that the proposed level of fare increase...is justified, and would still not cover the increases over the last three years."

Mr Khalid said although the proposed increase goes only halfway to covering the real costs faced by the trade, drivers must be realistic and wait for the city centre regeneration to improve business.

He said: "The economy in Bradford is not very strong, many people are out of jobs and Bradford has no high-street stores left.

"We have taken all these things into account and we are not going to ask for a full increase.

"I am asking drivers to give us some breathing space and we will see which way the wind blows."

The proposed fare hike will be considered by members of the regulatory and appeals committee at 2pm on Wednesday at City Hall.

The meeting is open to the public and dozens of taxi drivers are expected to attend.

Mr Khalid warned that there might be a shortage of cabs in the city centre for the duration of the meeting.