Not much to see here, and maybe one for the medical anoraks.
But from what I can see the reality is at odds with the newspaper's report.
It claims the process is to be made more rigorous. But the first consulation issue seems to be about using practitioners other than the 'monopoly' of the council's inhouse medicals. The second is about removing the requirement for under-45s to have a five-yearly medical, which is at odds with the DVLA's Group 2 requirements.
The other one is about drug testing, which is currently done on application. But no driver has ever failed, suggesting that it's either pointless, or drivers are abstaining from drugs in the run up to the test. So 'intelligence-led' tests are proposed as an alternative.
So although the drugs thing is debateable, I can't see the other two being more 'rigorous'.
Anyway, wasted enough time on this already, but the consultation paper is here for anyone who wants to check for themselves:
https://www.redditchbc.gov.uk/media/487 ... n-form.pdfRedditch taxi drivers to face more rigorous checkshttps://www.droitwichadvertiser.co.uk/n ... us-checks/REDDITCH taxi drivers could face more rigorous checks under the council's proposals to tighten its licensing regulations.The way taxi drivers are currently tested is being putting out to public consultation, and includes a number of changes.
Taxi drivers are currently required to pass an examination, including a drug test, by a specific Redditch Borough Council-approved medical practitioner.
This test is then repeated every five years and annually once over they are over 65.
This medical fitness is part of the ‘fit and proper person’ test that is required to hold a taxi license from the borough council.
The council can revoke or suspend the license of anyone that fails.
New options on how the tests could be done are now out to consultation
They include whether the tests could be done by any registered GP or the applicant’s own, whether they should only be required every five years for those aged over 45, and whether the drug test should be replaced with spot checks with no or short notice.
Simon Wilkes, head of Worcestershire Regulatory Services (WRS) which provides licensing services to the council, said: “As licence holders driving paying passengers on public roads, it’s important to assess that drivers are medically fit to drive hackney carriage and private hire vehicles.
"How that is done in Redditch is now under review, and the council is keen to hear from all interested parties on the proposed changes.”
The council is inviting comments on the proposals, or suggestions of any potential alternatives.
To take part in the consultation go to
https://www.redditchbc.gov.uk/consultations or if you need help contact WRS on 01905 822799 or
wrsenquiries@worcsregservices.gov.uk.
The consultation will close for comments on February 14 2020.