Some 74 hackney carriage drivers have asked for the rise, which will also double the price passengers pay while drivers are waiting.

They say rising fuel prices, insurance and the cost of maintenance are affecting their livelihood.

Jaswant Singh Gill is one of those who has organised the request.

He said: "The last increase was in March 2007. Since then fuel prices have gone up, food prices have gone up and gas and electricity prices have gone up.

"We are also suffering. Our money has to come from somewhere so we are asking about a 20 per cent increase on before."

Under the proposed system, passengers would pay £6.40 for a two-mile journey or £9.60 at night if Warwick district councillors agree on the rise, which will be discussed tomorrow (Thursday).

Mr Gill expects there to be some opposition and said drivers are prepared to negotiate.

He added: "We are reasonable people. If you go to Sainsbury's or Asda prices are higher.

"We have to ask for an increase otherwise we will not be able to earn a living."

The rise will leave Warwick district fares 42 per cent more expensive than in Stratford district, where councillors recently rejected cabbies' requests for an increase.

Increases in fares in Rugby were negotiated this week and rises in Coventry are due to be discussed on September 2.

The increases - how much would you pay?

Now: £3.40 for one mile, £5.00 for two and £10.80 for five.
After proposed increase*: £4.40, £6.00 and £12.40.
Stratford district: £3.10, £5.10 and £11.10.

* All Warwick district prices increase by half between 11pm and 5am and on Sundays and bank holidays.