A high number of the taxi drivers stopped during a random inspection were found to be failing in their responsibilities.
Slough Borough Council licensing officers, in partnership with Thames Valley Police, conducted vehicle stop checks on the borough’s licensed fleet.
Of the licensed trade 50% of those checked shockingly had identified issues:
- 1 vehicle was stopped with an unlicensed and uninsured driver – the vehicle was seized by TVP, and the licence suspended
- 2 drivers received points on their private hire drivers’ licence for failure to display their badge
- 1 driver was cautioned by TVP for speeding
- 1 vehicle was found to be displaying an expired vehicle licence, despite a renewal application being made and a new plate issued. The plate was removed, and the driver was advised to display the correct vehicle licence.
Any driver who receives 12 council penalty points will be brought to the Licensing Committee for a decision as to whether they are a fit and proper licensed driver. The minimum expected is that the vehicle is in a roadworthy condition, with the plate always displayed day or night. It is also expected that the driver displays their driver badge.
Councillor Puja Bedi, lead member for transport, housing, highways, the environment, and environmental services, said: “It is so disappointing to hear that during these random vehicle stop checks, a high number of the taxis and minicabs stopped had serious issues. It is particularly shocking that one driver was unlicensed and uninsured when people trust these drivers with their safety. Thank you to the licensing team and to Thames Valley Police for their continued hard work to keep our roads safe.”
More joint enforcement operations have been scheduled by the licensing team with TVP in the coming months, to ensure the rigorous standards to be a taxi or private hire driver are met.
If members of the public see Slough Borough Council licenced drivers not upholding the standards, please report via 01753 457111 (option 6).