BUDDING cabbies in Peterborough are being told to go back to the classroom to learn the skills of their trade.
Peterborough City Council is looking to introduce a day-long tuition course for would-be taxi drivers to ensure they are fully competent to serve the public.
The course, which will cost each driver £95, will end with a competency test, which all taxi drivers currently have to pass.
It is aimed at improving drivers’ grasp of English as well as basic maths and knowledge of Peterborough’s streets.
The Private Hire Drivers’ Association welcomed the initiative but said it should have come sooner.
Mohammed Shahid, chairman of the group, said: “The council has been way too lenient. I think they have turned a blind eye to the problem in the past.
“But we welcome this move. It is something we put forward to the council and is really positive.
“We have spoken to a lot of drivers and customers around Peterborough and other associations.
“It is a problem nationwide and needs tackling.
“Not speaking English can be a massive issue, not just causing problems on where to go but also if there is an emergency.
“We don’t think the cost is too high. There are way too many drivers and this will help secure work for those who are already operating and will help improve standards.”
The course will be run at Peterborough Regional College, in Park Crescent, and will last a day.
The initial cost will be about £95 and if the candidate fails they can resit the test for £25.
Those who need more help to pass the test can do the whole course again at a reduced rate of £60.
Currently drivers have to prove they are ‘fit and proper’ by sitting a reading and writing test, doing basic maths and taking a driving exam.
But the new rules will see everyone sit a day long course with the exam at the end. The course will cover topics including the Highway Code and licensing conditions.
Officers hope it will mean they can help people who fail, rather than just turning them away.
Cllr Peter Hiller, cabinet member for housing, neighbourhoods and planning, said: “From a council point of view we have always maintained a very high standard of testing taxi drivers who work in this city.
“I’ve always been keen we ensure the safety of passengers, both physically and legally.
“I don’t agree we have been lenient and to suggest we have is disingenuous.
“We are a lot stricter than other local authorities. I know we have failed people and they have gone to other areas to get a licence.
Ian Robinson, regulatory officer, said: “Our testing procedures for new drivers are far more stringent and comprehensive than many of our neighbouring councils.
“We are always looking to improve standards within the trade to make sure we have the best possible drivers, hence the new proposed competence course.”
The proposals to introduce the general competence course is now out to public consultation.
To comment on the plans email
taxi@peterborough.gov.uk by February 29.
Factfile: taxi test
THE new proposals are for a day long educational course at Peterborough Regional College.
It will see prospective taxi drivers being taught a range of issues.
This includes disability awareness and reference to the Equality Act 2010.
Basic maths skills will be taught, including production of receipts.
And the candidates will learn about the rules around licensing and what to do in an emergency.
At the end of the day they will have to sit an English reading and writing test.
http://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk/news ... _1_3472698
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FAQ
I guess they're hoping that some will drop out and I think it will only help improve standards if the current bunch of drivers do the same course
