Council bosses insist the plans are in the very early stages and it is not yet known how drivers will be tested

'Politeness' test for taxi drivers

http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/boltonnews/3677906._Politeness__test_for_taxi_drivers/

TAXI drivers in Bolton could be banned from carrying passengers if they fail proposed “politeness” exams.

Town hall chiefs want to cut the number of drivers being hauled before disciplinary panels for bad driving and other misdemeanours and are considering introducing exams to raise standards and improve the taxi trade’s image.

A company, which teaches the national vocational qualification in passenger safety, has already given a presentation to councillors and senior officers about the training, which could be made compulsory.

Council bosses insist the plans are in the very early stages and it is not yet known how drivers will be tested. But the course could teach driving skills, motoring law and customer service, including how to help disabled passengers into a car. Anyone who fails could be forced to re-sit and pass the exam before being allowed to work as a taxi driver in the borough.

Opposition to the training, which has been introduced in other parts of the country and would include both black cab and private hire taxis, is growing.

Charles Oakes, chairman of Bolton Hackney Association, said: “We would only support the idea if it was for new applicants. What can experienced drivers be further taught that we don’t already know? The idea is misplaced.

“The council keeps saying: ‘It’s the public’s perception of you that is the problem’ but I reject that. Perception of a lot of industries is not very good. You could say the same thing about councillors.”

Mr Oakes said making drivers give up their time to train would hit them in the pocket.

But Cllr Colin Shaw, who sits on Hackney carriage consultative panel, which heard the proposals, said: “It would be for the drivers’ benefit and would be at no cost because it is funded by the Government. The council has a responsibility to make sure that taxis are safe for the public. It will raise standards, which judging by the amount of penalties some who come

Ive no objection....Provided they run a Compulsory Politness test for Council Officials and staff too. as if that'll happen as its "Do as I say and not as I Do" where councils are involved..

I do...them people get paid to attend the course...you and I dont

CC

OK OK...they can pay me council rates...I'l smile and say please til me arse drops off...how polite is that!!!

I was with you up until your arse fell off, then you lost me.

CC