Taxi Driver Online

http://www.sloughobserver.co.uk/news/15225493.Taxi_driver_body_calls_for_higher_screening_standards_to_keep_kids_safe_in_Bucks/

TAXI drivers body has said it would support moves to ensure rogue cabbies do not slip through the net - following the Buckinghamshire Serious Case Review into child sexual exploitation.

Bucks County Council’s independent review has highlighted shortfalls in the licensing procedures of authorities which can allow criminals, or those with a shady past, to get licences.

Steve McNamara, general secretary of the Licensed Taxi Drivers Association (LTDA), which represents Hackney drivers, said: “The LTDA would support a national database of taxi and private hire drivers.


“However, we believe that the government should go further by establishing a clear set of robust minimum licensing standards, applicable across all licensing authorities, that includes a mandatory enhanced DBS check.”

An LTDA spokesperson said the issue of exploitation had been shown to be more of an issue for the private hire sector - rather than Hackney cabs - which cannot be booked.

The review said training for drivers to recognise the signs of exploitation was also vital.

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lack of modern legislation is the iceberg sinking the titanic of the transport sector

It doesn't need a national database of taxi and PH drivers.

What it needs is a national set of licensing criteria that all councils must adhere too.

That would stop thug or perv licensing in one area having been refused elsewhere.

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IDFIMH