Cabbies told they must improve language skills TAXI drivers have been told to brush up on their English language skills if they want to continue to operate.
South Derbyshire District Council has announced major changes to its Private Hire Licence conditions — the first since April 2009 — with a focus on improved communication with customers.
Speaking at a meeting of the council’s environmental and development services committee, which approved the changes, temporary licensing officer Peter Barrow said: “The changes are expected to secure a greater degree of public safety and align the council’s policy with nationally accepted best practice.”
The headline change will be to the Private Hire Knowledge Test. Currently, candidates are expected to satisfy the authority that they have a knowledge of the highway code, relevant legislation and a fundamental knowledge of customer care.
However, the amendment reads: ‘As the private hire knowledge test must be passed, this is considered a sufficient test of a candidate’s ability to understand and communicate effectively.
‘As private hire drivers maintain close contact with the public, a basic command of the English language is required.’
Neil Atkin, who represents the Aston ward on the district council, told Mr Barrow: “I have been in licence hearings for drivers and there has been a language problem where they have had to have a representative to help them understand.
“What do you mean about communicating effectively?”
Councillor Atkin was told that the knowledge test was multi-choice, where the candidates have to read and also understand the questions, which will prove they can communicate in that manner with passengers.
The knowledge test was introduced in 2008 and since its implementation has been updated and improved each year.
It is designed to build up knowledge of private hire conditions, the Highway Code, shortest routes available and road names.
Other important changes will include banning drivers from smoking in vehicles, even if they are off duty.
They will also not be allowed to sound a vehicle’s horn to make passengers aware of their presence.
Following a request, another change will include allowing vehicles adapted for wheelchair accessibility not to be scrapped after eight years if they are in a good condition.
source:
http://www.burtonmail.co.uk/News/Cabbie ... 042012.htm
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