Minutes:
Following introductions, the Chair explained the procedure for the hearing and confirmed that all parties had received a copy of the paperwork.
Prior to commencement of the hearing, the Licensing Officer clarified that this was a conduct hearing for a combined private hire/hackney carriage licence and not only a private hire conduct hearing as stated within the Licensing Officer’s report. The Appellant confirmed that this was correct and that he was in agreement for the matter to be considered on this basis.
The Licensing Officer stated that the Appellant was arrested in February 2011 for the offence of ‘solicit another for the purpose of obtaining their sexual services as a prostitute in a street/public place’ and convicted for the offence in June 2011. It was noted that the matter was brought to the attention of the Licensing Office following a local newspaper article.
The Appellant addressed the Sub-Committee and stated that he was very remorseful of his actions and provided an explanation regarding events that had led to the incident. The Appellant submitted that he was aware of the seriousness of the offence and that it was irresponsible behaviour. A number of character references were circulated to the Sub-Committee for their consideration.
In summing up, the Licensing Officer reminded Members of the options available to them and referred to the Policy on Convictions and Cautions which stated that an application should not be considered until a period of three years free from conviction or caution was shown.
The Appellant provided a brief summary stating that he regretted his actions.
Resolved – That Appellant Reference 03-11’scombined Private Hire/Hackney Carriage Driver’s Licence be revoked immediately under Section 61 (2B) of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976