Minutes:
The following is a Part I summary of the case.
Following introductions, the Chair outlined the procedure for the hearing. The Appellant was in attendance with his friend. It was noted that an interpreter would be assisting the Appellant during the hearing. Whilst confirming that all parties had received a copy of the paperwork, the Democratic Services Officer stated that Appendix E was missing from the agenda pack. A copy of the appendix was provided to the Appellant, who confirmed that he was happy to proceed with the hearing.
The Sub-Committee were informed that in March 2019 Thames Valley Police notified the Licensing Office that the Appellant’s vehicle had been seized following an Automatic Number Plate Recognition for no insurance. There was a passenger in the vehicle and the Appellant confirmed that he was working. From records held by the Licensing Office, the last valid certificate of motor insurance expired on 2nd January 2019. A Member asked whether the operator was still providing the Appellant with jobs and it was confirmed that for the period 2 January 2019 to 15 March 2019 the Appellant had completed 1027 bookings. Options available were outlined and it was recommended that the Private Hire Driver licence be revoked with immediate effect.
The Appellant reminded Members that he had been a licensed driver for over 17 years during which period he had had an exemplary record. Difficult personal circumstances, including the death of his mother and brother had meant that he had overlooked his vehicle insurance renewal.
The Licensing Officer reminded the Appellant that it was his responsibility to ensure the licensed vehicle had the appropriate insurance, tax and MOT at all times. It was noted that although he had received a text reminder from his insurance company he had not read it.
The Licensing Officer summarised details of the case and stated that the Appellant had been a licensed driver for a number of years and therefore aware of his responsibilities regarding insurance for the vehicle.
In summary, the Appellant stated that working as a licensed driver was his livelihood and that he would struggle to find alternative employment. He apologised for what had been a genuine oversight.
Resolved - That Appellant 01-19’s Private Hire Driver Licence be suspended for a period of three months and be issued with a formal warning about his future conduct as a licensed driver.