Laura Sharman 01 November 2019

Outdated taxi laws putting public at risk, councils warn

The Government has been urged to reform 'outdated and flawed' taxi laws by the Local Government Association (LGA).

The call comes after figures show that the number of licensed drivers and vehicles have hit a record high, increasing by 58% since 2005.

The LGA warns that outdated legislation and new technology is preventing councils from taking action against the rising numbers of unlicensed drivers operating in their area.

It is calling for national minimum licensing standards for drivers of taxis and PHVs, and a mandatory national database of all licensed taxi and PHV drivers.

Cllr Simon Blackburn, chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said: 'Reforms are needed to reflect the increasing use of mobile phone apps to book taxis and private hire vehicles and to give councils national enforcement powers so they can take action against any vehicles operating in their areas irrespective of where they are licensed.

'Safeguarding legislation needs to be strengthened following well-documented child exploitation cases where taxi and PHV drivers have abused the trust placed in them.

'Undue delay risks public safety.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Educational Psychologist

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
£45,586-£61,664
Join Our Values-Driven Psychology Service in Sandwell as an Educational and Child Psychologist Sandwell, West Midlands
Recuriter: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Quantity Surveyor

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Band G, SCP32 - 37 (£42,839 - £48,226) per annum
There is an excellent opportunity to join the Quantity Surveying team within the Asset Management Directorate of Sandwell MBC. Sandwell, West Midlands
Recuriter: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Highways Technical Assistant

North Yorkshire Council
£29,064 - £31,537 per annum
Would you like to be part of one of our friendly, welcoming Highways teams, who are proud to manage all aspects of the highway network? Kirby Misperton, Malton
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Registration Officer

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
£31,537 - £36,363
In this role, you will enjoy working with customers, delivering great customer service in a busy front-line environment. Sandwell, West Midlands
Recuriter: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Digital and Automation Analyst

North Yorkshire Council
£38,220-£42,839
Are you passionate about improving digital services for everyone? Northallerton, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council
Linkedin Banner