Kirklees: Private hire vehicles and pubs in licence crackdown
Published Date: 07 April 2010
Pubs and private hire taxi firms have been targeted during a series of licensing operations in Kirklees.
Two "mystery" shoppers attended a club and a pub to observe and a licensed visit was then carried out by uniformed officers.
Out of 13 customers within the pub, 10 were under age.
Papers will now be submitted for a full review within the next month before Kirklees Licensing Committee.
Kirklees Police licensing officer Sergeant John McFadzean said: "Working men's clubs in particular need to be aware of their licensing certificates and what that authorises them to do.
"We are here to support any licensed premises that require help but any that blatantly flout the law will be dealt with accordingly."
Private hire vehicles illegally plying for trade were also targeted. When approached, officers got in and travelled to a pre arranged location. The drivers were then dealt with by licensing officers and uniform police staff.
Five private hire drivers will now face further action. One vehicle was taken off the road immediately as it was not in a roadworthy condition.
Six drivers were issued with fixed penalty notices for road traffic offences.
Sgt McFadzean added: "It is illegal for private hire vehicles to pick up fares that are not pre-booked and it should be remembered by anyone who does get into a vehicle that if it is not pre-booked then it is not insured."
Source; http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/d ... 6208006.jp