Taxi Driver Online

March 10, 2008 Monday

Cab drivers protest at licence fee rise

Oxford Mail

Taxi operators in west Oxfordshire are complaining about plans to increase the cost of their licenses by more than the inflation rate.

West Oxfordshire District Council, the licensing authority, is recommending a ten per cent rise in the annual fee from £215 to £237.

Fees will also to go up for drivers' licences and private hire operators' licences.

Fares went up by 20 per cent last September. However, the operators say most of that has been cancelled out by fuel increases.

Ross Workman, of Abacus Taxis, Burwell Meadow, Witney, said: "The longer serving drivers are now taking less than they used to a year or two ago, meaning we must work longer and harder.

"The new drivers, having entered a saturated market place, have to work around the clock to make a living.

"The result is over-tired drivers."

Among others who have complained to the council are Markone Taxis of Carterton, TJ's of Apley Way, Witney, and Topcars of Ramsden.

The West Oxon Taxi and Private Hire Association has also voiced concern.

The recommended increases go before the council's licensing sub-committee on Wednesday.
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