Taxi drivers get permission to switch off CCTV while vehicles being used privatelyhttp://www.warringtonguardian.co.uk/new ... privately/TAXI drivers now have permission to temporarily switch off CCTV while their vehicles are being used privately.
The updated hackney carriage and private hire licensing policy came into force this week after approval from the licensing committee.
It sets out how the council will discharge its responsibilities to 'protect' the public, as well as cabbies, who have been praised for their efforts throughout the process.
"We are grateful for the support of the taxi trade and acknowledge their important role and contribution in helping to safeguard people," said a council spokesman.
Since June 2016, drivers across the town have been required to have cameras fitted in their vehicles.
But concerns have frequently been raised, with some labelling the camera system as 'intrusive'.
However, following discussions between the council and Information Commissioner's Office, cabbies now have permission to temporarily deactivate the CCTV when the vehicle is in private use.
The spokesman said: "CCTV now plays an important part of our commitment to protecting the public and preventing and detecting crime.
"We acknowledge that it is often the drivers who are themselves the victims of crime.
"The policy continues to reaffirm our commitment to CCTV.
"It now gives officers the flexibility to amend the technical aspects, so that the council can respond quickly to emerging best practice – both at a national and local level – and to ensure compliance.
"Drivers will still be required to ensure that the CCTV remains operational when being used in a licensed capacity."
The authority is also going to consult separately on any amendments to the convictions policy.
The spokesman added: "We acknowledge that the vast majority of drivers continue to act responsibly and are committed to safeguarding the safety of their passengers.
"We are grateful for their support and we remain committed to working with them to promote high standards of safeguarding.
"This will include training for all drivers as part of their licence.
"In common with other authorities, we have a duty to ensure that drivers remain fit and proper persons to hold a licence at all times.
"The updated convictions policy, which has been adopted with effect from June 13, helps us to do this.
"We are aware that the Institute of Licensing has recently published its own guidance.
"We recognise that this is an important national issue.
"We intend to fully consider the guidance and consult on any further changes to our own policy.
"The guidance looks at the character of the applicant, any risk factors and any change in behaviour.
"This process will again help us to promote best practice.
"Any case will always be considered on its relative merits."
Login
Register
FAQ
