Cabbies say that if they give printed receipts to customers they will be less likely to give tips and also that the machines cost thousands to rent.

The new law introduced by the Transport for London (TfL) Public Carriage Office came into effect on 1 January.

It was introduced after complaints that some drivers refused to give receipts.

Written receipt

TfL’s Roy Ellis said: “There is no intention to deter the recognition of good service by giving a tip.

“There is on the receipt for a tip to be written on if that is the will of the passenger and we have no to that whatsoever. There may be where a written receipt is more appropriate.”

TfL say the machines will make it easier for cabbies to give receipts.

Receipt information must include as a minimum the date of issue, time of issue, metered fare, metered extras, and total fare.

TfL has the power to force cabbies to give receipts but says it will only do this if complaints rise.