Taxi Driver Online

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Taxis in Colchester could be fitted with CCTV under proposals being considered by the council.

In a bid to improve safety, both for passengers and drivers, Colchester Borough Council is considering a policy which would see all newly licensed taxis fitted with cameras.

It would aim to help investigate complaints against drivers and crimes, protecting passengers – but also protect drivers from potentially false allegations.

There would be strict rules over security of the images, and systems could be triggered by the doors opening, a driver’s panic button, or even by a crash happening.

Audio recording would only be allowed in exceptional circumstances, such as if a panic button is activated.

Christie Wettasinghe, owner of the Hawaii 5-0 taxi firm, said he fully backed the scheme.

“I think it’s a terrific idea,” he added. “I back it wholly, without a shadow of a doubt.

“We have seen, every so often, drivers commit errors, and customers do too, especially when they are drunk. This would be for the public’s sake and ours too.

“It also acts as a deterrent, and makes both the public and drivers behave themselves.

“However, I would wish for a subsidy for the drivers to help pay for the costs.

“I have in the past given my drivers cameras, but it is a lot of money – especially depending on what specification they want. Perhaps the council could bulk buy to sell on to drivers at a reduced cost.”

A council spokesman said: “In light of various high profile cases, including the Rotherham Inquiry, we are in the process of reviewing and rewriting our taxi licensing policy. This includes giving consideration to making CCTV compulsory in all taxis and private hire vehicles, as well as introducing mandatory training for all drivers to address issues including child sexual exploitation and trafficking.

“We also receive a large number of complaints and allegations made in relation to drivers – the provision of CCTV may be beneficial in investigating these.

“The policy is not currently out for consultation, as it is still in its draft form. We are working with licensed operators to determine the most appropriate system to install, as well as the best ways to process and monitor the images.”

The council’s licensing committee will debate the proposals during a meeting on Wednesday, March 8.

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Couldn't have said it better myself.

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