A 20-YEAR row over rip-off pedicabs rumbled on this week with the city council calling for new legislative powers.

Politicians of different stripes have been talking about getting tough on the music-blaring rickshaws, but despite repeated attempts very little has been done.

Westminster City Council, which reported it had secured noise pollution convictions against 40 drivers in the last year, said “nuisance” pedicabs needed to be better regulated and has called for a transport bill to be announced in the coming King’s Speech at the state opening of parliament.

It has published a list of prices paid by unsuspecting tourists including £50 for a ride from Westminster Bridge to Victoria station.

Deputy council leader Aicha Less said: “These ludicrous prices prey on unsuspecting tourists wanting to enjoy London’s landmarks and reinforce the need for stricter controls on pedicabs. The issue is not exclusive to the West End, so people should be careful that getting a pedicab, which is unsafe and unlicensed, can cost them more than their day out. Don’t be ripped off and get the bus, a taxi, or use the Underground.”

Currently the council has powers to tackle pedicabs under the Control of Pollution Act 1974, which allows the authority to put forward for prosecution anyone playing amplified music after 9pm.

In August 2022 the former transport secretary Grant Shapps celebrated an “overdue” campaign win for “Two Cities” MP Nickie Aiken in announcing the new transport bill that would crack down on pedicabs.

Mr Shapps, during a visit to the West End, said the transport bill would become law this year, and added: “It’s long overdue… This will bring it under control.”

The government subsequently pulled the plug on the proposed transport bill, but has said it will consider other options later.

The Department for Transport said: “We appreciate concerns around e-cycle parking and local authorities are responsible for liaising with operators to ensure pavements remain clear where possible.

“Legislation on the future of transport will be taken forward when parliamentary time allows.”

The King’s Speech is due on November 7.