Taxi Driver Online

Whitby Gazette

January 22, 2008

Cab driver in licence appeal

A TAXI driver who it is claimed has several convictions for sexual offences involving under age girls dating back many years is fighting to get his licence back

Anthony Atkinson (62), of Hawsker, was recently refused permission for a taxi/private hire licence after a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check raised a number of concerns relating to criminal convictions.

Mr Atkinson, who has run Tony's Taxis since 1976, is appealing against the decision and the appeal is due to be heard by Scarborough Borough Council's licensing sub-committee on Thursday.

The report to the committee states that to grant a private hire driver's licence, the licensing authority must be satisfied that the person is a "fit and proper" person to hold such a licence.

A driver's badge is issued for a period of three years after which time the driver must submit a new application.

The report states that a recent CRB check raised a number of concerns about Mr Atkinson's past.

According to the report, in May 1972 Mr Atkinson was convicted of having intercourse with a girl under 16 years and indecent assault on a female under 16 years.

The report also states Mr Atkinson was convicted of two counts of intercourse with a girl under 16 years in April 1979 and July 1979.

He is also said to have previous convictions for wounding, possessing an offensive weapon, theft and obtaining property by deception, also committed many years ago.

Mr Atkinson said the offences took place so long ago that they should not have a bearing on whether or not he should be granted a private hire driver's licence.

However, the council report also claims that in June 1999, Mr Atkinson was prosecuted and fined £100 for refusing to carry a passenger in a Hackney Carriage.

In addition, it also states that there have been letters of complaint against Mr Atkinson. In September 1999 he is alleged to have made a derogatory comment about a disabled passenger and in January 2004 a support worker claimed Mr Atkinson had referred to a disabled person in her care as "it".

In considering Mr Atkinson's appeal, Scarborough Council says the principle consideration is to "protect and ensure the safety of the travelling public".

The report adds: "It has been recommended that Mr Atkinson's renewal application be refused as it is considered that there is sufficient and substantial evidence to support the opinion that he does not meet the required criteria and standards which state that he must be a 'fit and proper person to hold a licence'."

It has also been recommended that Mr Atkinson's renewal application be refused as there has been a recent offence of refusal to carry a passenger - the report states.

With regard to the appeal the report also says: "The safety of the travelling public is paramount with regards to the issue and renewal of a private hire driver's licence. Particular regard is given to offences involving dishonesty, violence or those of a sexual nature."

The licensing sub-committee will hear the appeal on Thursday and can either uphold or dismiss the appeal.
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Copyright notice © The contents of this post are copyright of JD and are not to be reproduced outside of TDO without written permission.

Have to wonder why these offences didn't come to light before

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How long have you had advanced disclosure in England, we have had it for the last 6 years to get our licences, renewed every 3 years