Defect rule change could ‘create taxi shortage’Had trouble calling a cab recently?
Well it could be down to strict new rules which are taking dodgy vehicles off the road.
Aylesbury Vale District Council has brought in a points system, with spot checks which have left drivers reeling.
They are allowed a maximum of 12 points, and can incur them for a range of safety flaws including no MOT and not displaying a blue drivers’ badge appropriately.
The council says the scheme is a positive move, designed to promote better standards and passenger safety.
But Mohammed Nawaz, of Aylesbury’s Private Hire Association, says it will cripple taxi firms, and lead to a shortage of cabs in the run up to Christmas.
He said: “Some firms could got out of business and this will affect a lot of people.
“They have brought this out of the blue and have not given us any time to make changes.
“Because of the new system safe cars could be taken off the road, because you can get points for not displaying a badge and things like that.
“Officers are going out with the police, the police pull drivers over and give them points, and then officers give them points too, so drivers are getting double points.”
“There has been no consultation with us, and everyone is very unhappy, by Christmas I don’t think there will be many firms left. Some firms have lost most of their cars because the rules are so strict.”
The association will meet next week to discuss the problem, and Mr Nawaz says that a strike has not been ruled out.
But Councillor Brian Roberts, cabinet member for civic amenities, dismissed claims that firms would go out of business.
He said: “Unfortunately it’s the minority ruining it for the majority and I don’t think it’s unfair at all.
“Everyone has to abide by the rules, and if you do then you won’t get any points.
“These people are carrying members of the public and it is important to keep members of the public safe.
“We are the local authority and this is our responsibility, but we are keen to work with these people all the time, but some are not abiding by the rules.
“I haven’t received a negative comment from anyone since this points system was introduced, everyone has said how positive it is.”
source:
http://www.bucksherald.co.uk/news/more- ... -1-6441631
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