Tougher measures to combat rogue taxi drivers

12.00.00am GMT Tue 13th Mar 2007

Council licensing chiefs have drawn-up a new policy to deal with the problem of rogue cabbies illegally plying for hire.

A report brought to a recent Licensing and Regulatory Panel meeting, outlined ways of reducing the problem through tougher penalties.

The meeting heard evidence from Hackney Carriage and Private Hire drivers, as well as the police, councillors and residents.

The panel passed the policy, much to the delight of Headingley councillor James Monaghan, who backed the report's recommendations in his role as Chair of both the Headingley Forum and North West Inner Area Committee.

Councillor James Monaghan (Lib Dem, Headingley) said "The problem of drivers illegally plying for trade in Headingley has reached epidemic proportions. Something has had to give and the new policy gives the council the means to tackle this issue head-on.

Councillor Monaghan added, "Whilst this may seem a trivial matter to some, drivers illegally plying for hire effects more than just traffic congestion. This problem has serious ramifications for both drivers and passengers.

"Drivers operating illegally are leaving law-abiding drivers out of pocket by stealing their trade. Passengers on the other hand, are potentially uninsured and there is no record of their journey, which is particularly alarming when you consider how vulnerable people are after a drink or two.

"The most obvious reason for drivers illegally plying for hire is the chance to bump up fares. This is simply unacceptable. The tougher penalties outlined in the new policy will undoubtedly make any driver think twice before going down this road."