had to be a PH didn't it
A taxi driver caught using his mobile phone behind the wheel is one of the first to receive six points on his licence after a new stricter law came into force on Wednesday.
Central Motorway Police Group tweeted they had stopped a private hire driver in Birmingham city centre.
The new rules came into effect on March 1, meaning all motorists will now receive six penalty points and a £200 fine if caught - previously drivers would receive three points and £100 penalty.
CMPG tweeted: “Birmingham city centre. Private hire driver stopped using his mobile phone whilst driving.
Solihull Partnership said they had also issued nine tickets.
They said: “The 1st day of new legislation for using mobile phone when driving 9 tickets issued to motorists #no excuse.”
Police forces are carrying out a seven-day crackdown with extra patrols and an “increased focus” on catching drivers using hand-held phones.
A similar operation last month saw 3,600 motorists given penalty notices.
The changes are set to have a significant impact on young drivers in particular, as they risk having their driving licence revoked following a first offence.
Those within two years of passing their test, risk having their licence revoked and lorry or bus drivers can be suspended if caught.