London Taxis & the Hay/Oats Law: Repealed in 1976

True. Until 1976, London taxi (hackney carriage) drivers were legally required to carry:

• A bale of hay
• A sack of oats

Why?

The law (Town Police Clauses Act 1847, plus earlier statutes) dated to the horse-drawn cab era. It ensured drivers could feed their horses during long waits at stands or in emergencies.

The Anachronism

• Last horse cab licensed in London: 1947.
• Motor taxis mandatory from 1947 onward.
• Yet the hay/oats requirement stayed on the books for 29 more years.

Repeal

The London Cab Order 1976 (Statutory Instrument 1976/183) finally removed the clause. Drivers celebrated by ceremonially burning hay bales.

Other archaic requirements (e.g., carrying a lantern, a whip) were also dropped. Today's "Knowledge" test and wheelchair accessibility rules are the modern equivalents.