Sussex wrote:
It must be months since they said a decision was imminent, but not a dickie bird. :shock:
Do the PCO think that everyone will forget about it and carry on as before? :-k
I think it highly likely the PCO wishes this one would go away.
The PCO many years ago, laid down a specification for the minimum requirement for a vehicle that any vehicle manufacturer could build, to be deemed fit for the purpose, for use as a Hackney Carriage (TAXI). The presently available cabs that fit the Conditions of Fitness, are, the LTI TX11, and the Metrocab. Both manufacturers built a cab to the required specification and therefore passed the COF. Now along comes a supplier of "Purpose Built" Converted Vans, that do not meet the specification that other suppliers can, and demands that the COF be changed to a standard that they can achieve. I mean, I could beat Linford Christie over a hundred metres, but the officials won't let me use a motorbike. Or, if the Royal Navy laid down a specification for a new submarine, and a shipyard produced a design that was quite good, but should not be used in salty water, it would not meet the laid down criteria.
The PCO's quandary is, as I see it, is that if they change the COF so that bread vans fit, LTI would cry foul and sue, (no choice really, it would drive them out of business) and if they refuse to lower the standard, the breadvan converters will sue. could cost squillions, could take years.
Just a view from the sideline. discuss.