Minicab driver who attacked passenger loses appeal against banA minicab driver who assaulted a female passenger has lost his appeal against his private hire licence being removed.
Anwar Ahmed, of Meredith Drive, Aylesbury, had held his licence for four years but had it taken away in September following his conviction.
Ahmed said that, although he was guilty of the offence, it was out of character and he regretted the incident.
Aylesbury Vale District Council argued that Ahmed breached the authority’s strict policy relating to the conduct of hackney carriage and private hire drivers. The policy states that as drivers maintain close contact with the public, any conviction for violence will be taken seriously.
It also says that drivers are often subject to unpleasant or dishonest behaviour but this cannot excuse any aggressive or abusive conduct by the driver.
High Wycombe Magistrates Court upheld the district council’s decision and ruled that Ahmed was not a fit and proper person to hold a private hire driver’s licence.
He was ordered to pay £1,160 towards the council’s costs.
Councillor Judy Brandis, chairman of the licensing committee said: “We welcome the results of this case and the confirmation that the council’s decision was the right one.
“The protection of the travelling public is of paramount importance to us.
“People have the right to feel safe when using a licensed taxi or private hire service and should expect fit and proper drivers to transport them.
“We will continue to act against any taxi or private hire drivers tarnishing the trade with dangerous or illegal actions and hope this serves as a warning.”
source:
http://www.bucksherald.co.uk/news/crime ... -1-6489701
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