The initiative, which is also being considered by cab companies in Glasgow, is designed to curb the spread of sexually transmitted infections.

Edinburgh firm Festival City Cars has already been provided with 5000 free condoms to distribute through its fleet of 220 cars from January if the local licensing authority gives its approval.

The scheme was piloted in Brighton in August when 60,000 condoms were handed out by taxi drivers.

Dundee’s licensing committee convener, Councillor Bruce Mackie, said he had no objection in principle to the scheme, but urged a little caution.

Mr Mackie said it would be very important to ensure it did not offend other taxi passengers in any way or contravene the terms of the taxi licence.

He added, “If a taxi company wanted to do this, the best way would be through our taxi liaison committee and it could then go to the full licensing committee.

“Our feeling is that if anyone wanted to do this, we would want to hear about it and then express a view on it. It would be dealt with through the normal channels.”