I see the Scottish Taxi Federation have updated their 'deregulation' bit on their website with a press release against the OFT proposal.
It's along the same lines as their original OFT submission, but even more scarmongering:
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Currently, Local Authorities in Scotland have the power to limit the number of taxi licenses but a central part of the OFT proposals is to lift these quantity regulations so there are no limits on the number of taxis on our streets. The STF believe this would destroy the taxi industry, pointing to a similar scheme in Dublin which has caused huge damage to the taxi trade in the city and left customers worse off. The expected problems include:
· A huge influx of new drivers and operators causing loss of business and even bankruptcy for current drivers.
· An overall decrease in taxi availability. Drivers concentrate on peak hours and create an effectively part time industry.
· A lack of quality control leading to an inferior service, e.g. drivers with a lack of geographical knowledge and overcharging.
· A decrease in customer safety – inferior vehicles, over worked drivers, even an increase in rapes and sexual assaults.
· An opportunity for money launderers and drug traffickers to enter the industry.
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I wonder if they have any members in unrestricted areas in Scotland??
Dusty
