Warning over taxi drivers' new licence rules in East StaffordshireTAXI drivers are being warned about changes to licences to take into account new rules seeking to educate them – and help them spot – child sexual exploitation.
Councillor Bernard Peters, chairman of East Staffordshire Borough Council's licensing committee, said those applying for licences must complete a new education requirement.
He said: "New driver applicants are required to produce documentation so a Disclosure and Barring Service certificate can be applied for. This has replaced the Criminal Records Bureau check. The applicant is also required to declare offences awaiting court hearing."
The committee is overseeing changes to the hackney carriage and private hire policy, and the Gambling Act policy, both the subject of a consultation process.
Councillor Peters said: "The new policy proposes all new applicants for a drivers' badge, including applicants renewing their licence, complete education around child sexual exploitation, disability awareness and customer care as part of the knowledge test.
"There is an overall emphasis on the high standard of customer service and the knowledge of child sexual exploitation and disability discrimination expected of the drivers and operators licensed by East Staffordshire Borough Council."
"It is imperative those licensed by the authority are fit and proper to hold a licence."
The consultation is open until Wednesday, September 30.
Read more:
http://www.burtonmail.co.uk/Warning-tax ... z3mdm76bX6
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