EIRE
There was a time when getting a taxi was a bit like winning the urban Lotto. There were too few of them and too many of us, and that was the way the industry liked it.
A completely artificial and profoundly unfair regulatory process meant that the price of a taxi plate ran to about a hundred grand and it was seen by many drivers as a veritable licence to print money. In a country which was still held in a sort of MMA death grip by the unions and vested interests, taxis were simply another example of a privileged minority who thought the world, or more accurately, the rest of us, owed them a living. So it was no surprise that, in the run-up to deregulation in 2000, there was a caustic fault line between professional taxi drivers and passengers.
Cosseted by the fact that they were members of a closed shop, the taxi industry was appalled and furious, but mostly furious, that the market was about to open up and introduce them to the cold, hard glare of competition.
In one way, you couldn't blame them. After all, their plate was their pension and the "S" from their PSV licence, the bit that put the "Service" into "Public Service Vehicle" was seen as some sort of bothersome, grudging concession to the taxi drivers' least favourite person – their own passenger. The sense of entitled stupidity reached thoroughly heroic levels of hyperbole when professional cabbies started a series of public protests, which featured some drivers using words like "Holocaust" to describe the introduction of a free market. But such behaviour at the time simply convinced the public that this was a group of people who needed a radical overhaul of their cash cow.
Fast-forward 14 years and the landscape is immeasurably better. Freeing up the market not only improved the quality of the service for the customer, but also gave the industry a much-needed injection of fresh blood – the days of the professional cabbie, the kind of madman who referred to non-taxi drivers as "civilians" were over.
Now most of those driving saw it as a job, not some selfless vocation that must be expounded upon every time a punter sat in their car.
But too many drivers are driving too many cars, and too many of these drivers shouldn't be allowed anywhere near the public. So the news that a blitz on dodgy drivers over the weekend, which saw an estimated, and frankly, incredible 2,700 drivers stay at home rather than run a gauntlet of traffic cops, should come as no surprise. And it should be welcomed.
Driving a cab in Dublin is now one of the hardest and most thankless tasks any worker can do. There are fewer punters than before, there are more cabs on the street and there has been an influx of non-nationals, many, but not all, of whom seem to have no idea where they are going. And let's not forget the recent spate of taxi-jackings.
But the interesting thing about last weekend's developments?
Well, any taxi driver I've spoken to is genuinely delighted that the authorities are finally taking steps to improve the business they work in.
Taxi drivers happy to see the cops checking on them?
Now that's something few of us ever thought we'd ever see.
http://tinyurl.com/pggte77
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The fact that around one-in-four taxi drivers chose to stay off the roads during a garda clampdown over the weekend is a damning indictment.
There are currently 11,077 licensed taxis in Dublin, meaning that around 2,700 drivers did not show up for work during the garda operation.
While the vast majority of Dublin's taxi drivers are honest and hard working, there is a percentage of drivers who should not be on the roads.
This is because they are driving cars that are not fit for purpose, or because they are not properly licensed.
The gardai have done an excellent job over the weekend and Transport Minister Allen Kelly's promise of further action is welcome.
Taxi passengers should also do everything that they can to protect themselves and downloading the driver check application, which can be used to identify rogue drivers, for your mobile phone is a good place to start.
http://www.herald.ie/news/bogus-taxi-drivers-try-to-avoid-gardai-30393223.html
----------------------------------------------
A BRADFORD'S women's group has added its voice to fears that the relaxation of taxi hire rules could lead to more sex attacks in the city.
Steffy Bechelet, who is Women's and Liberation Officer at the University of Bradford, said she is deeply concerned the proposed taxi changes which are now going through Parliament would "undoubtedly" leave vulnerable people at risk.
"My immediate concern, should this bill pass through Parliament, is that those without taxi licences and access to vehicles could exploit them for their own malicious means, including theft, assault and sexual assault," she said.
Concerns that the changes to taxi regulations, if they go ahead, could be exploited by sham drivers posing a risk to unsuspecting passengers have already triggered police chiefs to lobby the Government.
West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Burns-Williamson has joined more than 15 other police commissioners across the country who want to get three changes in the reforms removed from the Deregulation Bill.
Currently, only licensed cab drivers can get behind the wheel of a marked private hire vehicle, they have to be regularly re-licensed and there are restrictions on drivers who are licensed by one authority working in other areas.
But the Deregulation Bill could sweep those safeguards away making it a free-for-all, with no guarantees that the driver of a vehicle is who they say they are.
Miss Bechelet added: "I am however encouraged by the strong statement issued by the West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Burns Williamson.
"It is imperative that those within our community who lead and indeed our community as a whole stands up to ensure that this bill is not passed, safeguarding all those who wish to use this form of public transport in the future."
However, Shabir Ahmed, of Keighley and Bradford Taxi Drivers' Association, said: "People keep talking about women passengers not being safe but no-one talks as much about taxi drivers being the victims of attacks.
"The police don't make as much of a fuss about that. It can be hard being a taxi driver, we don't deserve to be judged as the type of people who would misuse taxis to carry out crime."
He added: "We would be in favour of the change that would let others drive our cars when we're not using them as taxis because our family could also use them and we wouldn't need to find money for a second car - it would be a popular change with us."
Mr Burns-Williamson has conceded some changes might be needed but he has insisted that safeguards should "stay firmly" in place.
The PCCs have written to Ken Clarke, the minister responsible for the Bill, urging him to bring about reforms that could be brought in a considered way, subject to rigorous scrutiny.
http://tinyurl.com/px375y9
Monday 30 June 2014
UBER Manchester, unlawful signs update.
Further to yesterday's photo of the signs that UBER have fitted to their Manchester PH vehicles.
To show other than a white light to the front of a vehicle is an automatic MOT failure. It can be argued if a vehicle is not roadworthy it is also uninsured.
Manchester Council have yet to respond.
Further to yesterday's photo of the signs that UBER have fitted to their Manchester PH vehicles.
To show other than a white light to the front of a vehicle is an automatic MOT failure. It can be argued if a vehicle is not roadworthy it is also uninsured.
Manchester Council have yet to respond.
Friday 27 June 2014
UBER, Manchester have illuminated signs fitted.
I believe this sign is Illegal, I paste the relevant section of the 1981 Greater Manchester Act.
It is quite obvious what Parliaments intention was when this section was implemented. You must not trick the public into thinking you are a Licensed vehicle available for hire. The interesting additional feature of this sign, I am told, is that the light goes out when it is mobile with a passenger on board, just as a real Taxi hire light goes out in the same circumstances.
I will of course see that the matter is reported to the local authority, BUT, I doubt they will do anything about it.
It is just one more thing to be added to any further action we need to take against this failing authority.
Read more at;
www.national-taxi-association.co.uk/?p=7619
taxileaks.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/uber-now-using-illuminated-signage-in.html
I believe this sign is Illegal, I paste the relevant section of the 1981 Greater Manchester Act.
It is quite obvious what Parliaments intention was when this section was implemented. You must not trick the public into thinking you are a Licensed vehicle available for hire. The interesting additional feature of this sign, I am told, is that the light goes out when it is mobile with a passenger on board, just as a real Taxi hire light goes out in the same circumstances.
I will of course see that the matter is reported to the local authority, BUT, I doubt they will do anything about it.
It is just one more thing to be added to any further action we need to take against this failing authority.
Read more at;
www.national-taxi-association.co.uk/?p=7619
taxileaks.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/uber-now-using-illuminated-signage-in.html
Tuesday 24 June 2014
Parliament Yesterday 23 June.
Start at 1 hour 15 mins.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/democracylive/house-of-commons-27980959
Start at 1 hour 15 mins.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/democracylive/house-of-commons-27980959
Sunday 22 June 2014
LEEDS, Tax Payer taken for a ride.
The aspiring glamour model who had a breast enlargement operation on the NHS sparked further fury today after revealing she receives £6,000 of taxpayer-funded taxi journeys a year.
Mother-of-two Josie Cunningham, of Leeds, infamously had her 32A breasts enlarged to a 36DD with £4,800 of taxpayers’ money, after saying her flat chest was ‘ruining her life’.
And now the pregnant 24-year-old has claimed that she cannot take the bus because it gives her anxiety attacks - and she is now ‘more hated’ by the public than her idol, model Katie Price.
Council chiefs have granted her request to take her children to and from school every day by taxi - costing £150 a week - and she is also being given NHS sessions to help reduce her stress.
Miss Cunningham told The Sun: ‘Why should I foot the bill when it’s the public who cause me so much discomfort? They can pay for it.
‘I couldn’t get a bus again. I’m too well recognised and the amount of hate I receive makes it impossible to get public transport.’
The mother, who is now six months pregnant after becoming a £1,000-a-night prostitute, added: ‘Taxpayers should be grateful it’s only taxi fares and not private hire cars.’
An application to the council was made after she told her GP that her children aged three and six were missing nursery and school because she could not face taking the bus.
The doctor told the council about her health issues, and officials accepted the plea for free taxi rides to take her the two and a half miles to and from the school, twice a day.
A Leeds City Council spokesman told The Sun that he would not comment on individual cases, but added that the local authority 'takes matters relating to attendance at school extremely seriously'.
However, neighbours on her estate called the revelations of her free taxi use 'unfair' and 'disgusting' - and the TaxPayers' Alliance said taxpayers were being 'taken for a ride'.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2665542/NHS-boob-job-girl-Josie-Cunningham-gets-6-000-taxpayer-funded-taxi-rides.html#ixzz35RHZIChP
-----------------------------------------------
Tameside
Denton's MP has called on the Government to abandon proposed changes to taxi and minicab laws which he says could threaten passenger safety.
The proposed reforms will enable people without a minicab license to drive one when it is ‘off duty’, end annual license checks and allow minicab operators to subcontract bookings to firms in other areas.
At presents taxis and minicabs can only be legally driven by someone licensed through the council – who has undergone rigorous checks – but now under the new law, drivers would be able to loan their cars to anyone they choose.
There has been widespread criticism from MPs, councillors, campaigners, unions and taxi drivers themselves about the Governments last minute decision to insert these reforms into the Deregulation Bill over fears that it will increase the number of ‘bogus’ taxi drivers on our streets.
Denton and Reddish MP, Andrew Gwynne, has slammed the proposed changes because of concerns they could put passengers at risk.
“At present, minicabs in my constituency are driven by people who have undergone criminal, medical and background checks with our councils in Tameside and Stockport but the Government is threatening to remove these safeguards and let anyone drive an off duty minicab,” he said.
“I know many people in Denton and Reddish, particularly women and those with impaired mobility, rely on taxis and minicabs to get home safely.
“I’m worried that Minister’s plans will increase the number of rogue drivers on our roads – I’m calling on the Government to abandon these proposals and put passenger safety first.”
Councillor John Longsden, chairman of Manchester City Council's licensing and appeals committee, said it has always been a major priority for them to keep taxi passengers safe.
He says this is why the council has put in place very clear rules to make sure customers can easily identify private hire vehicles, but these new reforms would jeopardise their efforts.
"The City Council and members of the taxi industry are very concerned about clauses within the Deregulation Bill which would undo a lot of this work, make it more difficult for customers to know they are getting into a taxi they can trust, and make it harder for councils to regulate the industry," he told MM.
“We believe these clauses will potentially make it easier for bogus taxi drivers to operate and reduce the opportunity for effective enforcement.
“We're urging the government to rethink these proposals, instead of rushing through without any effective consultation."
Chair of Stockport Council’s Licensing, Environment & Safety Committee, Cllr Chris Gordon also has concerns, but underlined that this was his personal view and not the view of the Liberal Democrats or Stockport Council.
He said: “Although the vast majority of licence holders are honest, hardworking individuals, these changes will indeed put members of the general public, and especially women and vulnerable people at risk and will vastly increase the level of monitoring and enforcement needed by our officers.”
Eddie Cooke, of Stockport’s Private Hire Association, told MM the proposed reforms have been a ‘complete waste of tax payer’s money’ and are a ‘recipe for disaster’.
“Would you want your daughter to be taken home in one these potentially bogus cabs?” he asked.
The Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which has campaigned for safer taxis since the early 90s, has raised concerns that enabling anyone to drive a licensed minicab will provide “greater opportunity for those intent on preying on women.”
There have been a number of high profile cases involving taxi drivers committing sexual assaults, but it is believed many go unreported.
Last year, the number of sex crimes involving taxis increased at such a rapid rate that a judge issued a warning that no woman can expect to be safe while travelling in a cab.
However, these assaults are not limited to men, in February last year, cab driver Elhadi Sakhri was jailed for almost eight years after admitting two counts of rape against men he picked up in Manchester’s Gay Village.
Campaigners fear that with these new reforms, the number of cases could skyrocket, as potentially predatory individuals would be able to masquerade as legitimate drivers.
The reforms are part of the Governments Deregulation Bill, which is to be voted on by MPs tomorrow.
http://www.mancunianmatters.co.uk/content/220669450-taxi-and-minicab-law-changes-could-threaten-passenger-safety-warns-denton-mp
------------------------------------------------------------
CAMBRIDGE.
Taxi wars as drivers protest over threats and intimidation and call on Cambridge council to crack down on rogue cabbies
Taxi drivers say they are being threatened and intimidated by rogue private hire motorists and claim council officers will not come out at night in Cambridge to crack down on the “danger” to residents.
Cambridge Hackney Carriage Association, which represents about 200 drivers, says its members have been met with threats and intimidation from private hire drivers fighting for trade and called on the city council to brave the night.
A spokesman said: “You need an enforcement officer from each team to be able to combat this but to our dismay no enforcement is out when this problem is at its worse from about 1.30am-4am.
“We keep asking the council to come and actively enforce the rules but they say they don’t get paid to come out at that time.”
He added: “This has been going on for years under the noses of police and CCTV and is our biggest problem in the trade as these cars are easily mistaken for taxis as they have company logos on them and they line the streets especially Regent Street and St Andrew’s Street of a night time and some have even taken to taking hails in front of taxis.
“When other taxi drivers confront them they are met with threats and aggression.”
The cars are licensed by district and the city council, and the group wants them to crack down on the trade.
The spokesman said not dealing with the rogue drivers is “risking public health but in the scheme of things this is in a very small area and can be very easily policed”.
A council spokesman said: “Over the past 18 months we have taken approximately 20 prosecutions for drivers plying for hire illegally and not having the correct car insurance. Licensing officers will continue to carry out regular visits within the city to carry out enforcement and work closely with the police and officers from other councils.
“We remind drivers of their responsibilities and the taxi guide clearly states this. If any member of public has any concerns we ask them to look at the following web page www.cambridge.gov.uk/hackney-carriage-and-private-hire which states the difference between a hackney carriage and a private hire vehicle.”
Read more: http://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/Cambridge/Taxi-wars-as-drivers-face-threats-and-intimidation-and-call-on-Cambridge-council-to-crack-down-on-rogues-20140620144307.htm#ixzz35RGcsevg
------------------------------------------------
GLASGOW
A TAXI driver and a pensioner were last night fighting for life in hospital after horrific violence exploded on a quiet street.
Andy Burns, 44, was stabbed before 68-year-old Jean Evans suffered serious knife wounds after going to help.
Their alleged assailant was also in hospital recovering from self-inflicted injuries after an apparent suicide attempt.
A passing hackney cab driver realised something was wrong when he saw the private hire car stopped at an angle in the street.
He then saw the driver struggle from the vehicle in Eastfield Avenue in Glasgow’s Cambuslang at around 8pm on Friday.
He said: “I went to do a U-turn intending to come back, block them and try to help.
“By the time I had done this, the victim had managed to get out of the car. He tried to break into a run but faltered and fell.
“At the same time, the other man attempted to get away having moved into the driver’s seat.
“But the car was stalling as he tried to get away.
“The driver I share my taxi with joined me and chased after him trying to get a registration.
“After I got the registration I phoned an ambulance and the police, everything. I was on to the police as I was chasing him.
“I then went back to the scene to see if the guy was all right but there were people there helping him already”
Dad-of-three Andy’s face was slashed and his neck stabbed while inside his car.
He also suffered injuries to his hands and body as he tried to defend himself from the attack.
Mark AndersonThe street in Eastfield, Glasgow, where two people were stabbed.
The private hire car came to a halt a few hundred yards down the street where Jean was stabbed in the chest after she left her garden.
Her next door neighbour Maureen Kenny, 77, said she was watching television when she became aware of an incident outside.
She said: “The first I noticed was all the police cars, there were people all rushing about.
“I saw a neighbour come across with a duvet and then I went outside and saw Jean being stretchered into an ambulance.
“I asked police if her son knew what was happening and they asked me for his mobile number. I saw blood all down the path and then later realised she must have been trying to reach me to get help.
“Our back gardens are divided by a piece if wood and there was blood all over her side and less blood on my side.
“I felt awful. Jean was a good neighbour, but a very private woman.
“She lost her husband around five years ago. She would come in for a chat but I always asked her to family events and she never came.
“Her son Stephen still lived with her and she had two other boys. She was always working in her garden and I saw her in there around 6pm on Friday.
“I spoke to Stephen and he said she’s had surgery and the family is all still in shock.”
Maureen added: “She is retired now but used to run a cafe at the Barras.”
Neighbour Murray Wilson, 44, said: “I know two of the people who ran out to help the taxi driver and Jean. They’re both in a terrible state of shock.
“The taxi driver jumped out his car covered in blood and screamed for help from another neighbour who was sitting in his garden.”
Within an hour of the stabbing a 33-year-old man was detained by armed police two miles away in Lochbrae Drive.
Police said yesterday that they were not looking for anyone else in connection with the attacks. It is unclear if there was any motive.
http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/glasgow-taxi-attack-witnesses-tell-3741526
The aspiring glamour model who had a breast enlargement operation on the NHS sparked further fury today after revealing she receives £6,000 of taxpayer-funded taxi journeys a year.
Mother-of-two Josie Cunningham, of Leeds, infamously had her 32A breasts enlarged to a 36DD with £4,800 of taxpayers’ money, after saying her flat chest was ‘ruining her life’.
And now the pregnant 24-year-old has claimed that she cannot take the bus because it gives her anxiety attacks - and she is now ‘more hated’ by the public than her idol, model Katie Price.
Council chiefs have granted her request to take her children to and from school every day by taxi - costing £150 a week - and she is also being given NHS sessions to help reduce her stress.
Miss Cunningham told The Sun: ‘Why should I foot the bill when it’s the public who cause me so much discomfort? They can pay for it.
‘I couldn’t get a bus again. I’m too well recognised and the amount of hate I receive makes it impossible to get public transport.’
The mother, who is now six months pregnant after becoming a £1,000-a-night prostitute, added: ‘Taxpayers should be grateful it’s only taxi fares and not private hire cars.’
An application to the council was made after she told her GP that her children aged three and six were missing nursery and school because she could not face taking the bus.
The doctor told the council about her health issues, and officials accepted the plea for free taxi rides to take her the two and a half miles to and from the school, twice a day.
A Leeds City Council spokesman told The Sun that he would not comment on individual cases, but added that the local authority 'takes matters relating to attendance at school extremely seriously'.
However, neighbours on her estate called the revelations of her free taxi use 'unfair' and 'disgusting' - and the TaxPayers' Alliance said taxpayers were being 'taken for a ride'.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2665542/NHS-boob-job-girl-Josie-Cunningham-gets-6-000-taxpayer-funded-taxi-rides.html#ixzz35RHZIChP
-----------------------------------------------
Tameside
Denton's MP has called on the Government to abandon proposed changes to taxi and minicab laws which he says could threaten passenger safety.
The proposed reforms will enable people without a minicab license to drive one when it is ‘off duty’, end annual license checks and allow minicab operators to subcontract bookings to firms in other areas.
At presents taxis and minicabs can only be legally driven by someone licensed through the council – who has undergone rigorous checks – but now under the new law, drivers would be able to loan their cars to anyone they choose.
There has been widespread criticism from MPs, councillors, campaigners, unions and taxi drivers themselves about the Governments last minute decision to insert these reforms into the Deregulation Bill over fears that it will increase the number of ‘bogus’ taxi drivers on our streets.
Denton and Reddish MP, Andrew Gwynne, has slammed the proposed changes because of concerns they could put passengers at risk.
“At present, minicabs in my constituency are driven by people who have undergone criminal, medical and background checks with our councils in Tameside and Stockport but the Government is threatening to remove these safeguards and let anyone drive an off duty minicab,” he said.
“I know many people in Denton and Reddish, particularly women and those with impaired mobility, rely on taxis and minicabs to get home safely.
“I’m worried that Minister’s plans will increase the number of rogue drivers on our roads – I’m calling on the Government to abandon these proposals and put passenger safety first.”
Councillor John Longsden, chairman of Manchester City Council's licensing and appeals committee, said it has always been a major priority for them to keep taxi passengers safe.
He says this is why the council has put in place very clear rules to make sure customers can easily identify private hire vehicles, but these new reforms would jeopardise their efforts.
"The City Council and members of the taxi industry are very concerned about clauses within the Deregulation Bill which would undo a lot of this work, make it more difficult for customers to know they are getting into a taxi they can trust, and make it harder for councils to regulate the industry," he told MM.
“We believe these clauses will potentially make it easier for bogus taxi drivers to operate and reduce the opportunity for effective enforcement.
“We're urging the government to rethink these proposals, instead of rushing through without any effective consultation."
Chair of Stockport Council’s Licensing, Environment & Safety Committee, Cllr Chris Gordon also has concerns, but underlined that this was his personal view and not the view of the Liberal Democrats or Stockport Council.
He said: “Although the vast majority of licence holders are honest, hardworking individuals, these changes will indeed put members of the general public, and especially women and vulnerable people at risk and will vastly increase the level of monitoring and enforcement needed by our officers.”
Eddie Cooke, of Stockport’s Private Hire Association, told MM the proposed reforms have been a ‘complete waste of tax payer’s money’ and are a ‘recipe for disaster’.
“Would you want your daughter to be taken home in one these potentially bogus cabs?” he asked.
The Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which has campaigned for safer taxis since the early 90s, has raised concerns that enabling anyone to drive a licensed minicab will provide “greater opportunity for those intent on preying on women.”
There have been a number of high profile cases involving taxi drivers committing sexual assaults, but it is believed many go unreported.
Last year, the number of sex crimes involving taxis increased at such a rapid rate that a judge issued a warning that no woman can expect to be safe while travelling in a cab.
However, these assaults are not limited to men, in February last year, cab driver Elhadi Sakhri was jailed for almost eight years after admitting two counts of rape against men he picked up in Manchester’s Gay Village.
Campaigners fear that with these new reforms, the number of cases could skyrocket, as potentially predatory individuals would be able to masquerade as legitimate drivers.
The reforms are part of the Governments Deregulation Bill, which is to be voted on by MPs tomorrow.
http://www.mancunianmatters.co.uk/content/220669450-taxi-and-minicab-law-changes-could-threaten-passenger-safety-warns-denton-mp
------------------------------------------------------------
CAMBRIDGE.
Taxi wars as drivers protest over threats and intimidation and call on Cambridge council to crack down on rogue cabbies
Taxi drivers say they are being threatened and intimidated by rogue private hire motorists and claim council officers will not come out at night in Cambridge to crack down on the “danger” to residents.
Cambridge Hackney Carriage Association, which represents about 200 drivers, says its members have been met with threats and intimidation from private hire drivers fighting for trade and called on the city council to brave the night.
A spokesman said: “You need an enforcement officer from each team to be able to combat this but to our dismay no enforcement is out when this problem is at its worse from about 1.30am-4am.
“We keep asking the council to come and actively enforce the rules but they say they don’t get paid to come out at that time.”
He added: “This has been going on for years under the noses of police and CCTV and is our biggest problem in the trade as these cars are easily mistaken for taxis as they have company logos on them and they line the streets especially Regent Street and St Andrew’s Street of a night time and some have even taken to taking hails in front of taxis.
“When other taxi drivers confront them they are met with threats and aggression.”
The cars are licensed by district and the city council, and the group wants them to crack down on the trade.
The spokesman said not dealing with the rogue drivers is “risking public health but in the scheme of things this is in a very small area and can be very easily policed”.
A council spokesman said: “Over the past 18 months we have taken approximately 20 prosecutions for drivers plying for hire illegally and not having the correct car insurance. Licensing officers will continue to carry out regular visits within the city to carry out enforcement and work closely with the police and officers from other councils.
“We remind drivers of their responsibilities and the taxi guide clearly states this. If any member of public has any concerns we ask them to look at the following web page www.cambridge.gov.uk/hackney-carriage-and-private-hire which states the difference between a hackney carriage and a private hire vehicle.”
Read more: http://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/Cambridge/Taxi-wars-as-drivers-face-threats-and-intimidation-and-call-on-Cambridge-council-to-crack-down-on-rogues-20140620144307.htm#ixzz35RGcsevg
------------------------------------------------
GLASGOW
A TAXI driver and a pensioner were last night fighting for life in hospital after horrific violence exploded on a quiet street.
Andy Burns, 44, was stabbed before 68-year-old Jean Evans suffered serious knife wounds after going to help.
Their alleged assailant was also in hospital recovering from self-inflicted injuries after an apparent suicide attempt.
A passing hackney cab driver realised something was wrong when he saw the private hire car stopped at an angle in the street.
He then saw the driver struggle from the vehicle in Eastfield Avenue in Glasgow’s Cambuslang at around 8pm on Friday.
He said: “I went to do a U-turn intending to come back, block them and try to help.
“By the time I had done this, the victim had managed to get out of the car. He tried to break into a run but faltered and fell.
“At the same time, the other man attempted to get away having moved into the driver’s seat.
“But the car was stalling as he tried to get away.
“The driver I share my taxi with joined me and chased after him trying to get a registration.
“After I got the registration I phoned an ambulance and the police, everything. I was on to the police as I was chasing him.
“I then went back to the scene to see if the guy was all right but there were people there helping him already”
Dad-of-three Andy’s face was slashed and his neck stabbed while inside his car.
He also suffered injuries to his hands and body as he tried to defend himself from the attack.
Mark AndersonThe street in Eastfield, Glasgow, where two people were stabbed.
The private hire car came to a halt a few hundred yards down the street where Jean was stabbed in the chest after she left her garden.
Her next door neighbour Maureen Kenny, 77, said she was watching television when she became aware of an incident outside.
She said: “The first I noticed was all the police cars, there were people all rushing about.
“I saw a neighbour come across with a duvet and then I went outside and saw Jean being stretchered into an ambulance.
“I asked police if her son knew what was happening and they asked me for his mobile number. I saw blood all down the path and then later realised she must have been trying to reach me to get help.
“Our back gardens are divided by a piece if wood and there was blood all over her side and less blood on my side.
“I felt awful. Jean was a good neighbour, but a very private woman.
“She lost her husband around five years ago. She would come in for a chat but I always asked her to family events and she never came.
“Her son Stephen still lived with her and she had two other boys. She was always working in her garden and I saw her in there around 6pm on Friday.
“I spoke to Stephen and he said she’s had surgery and the family is all still in shock.”
Maureen added: “She is retired now but used to run a cafe at the Barras.”
Neighbour Murray Wilson, 44, said: “I know two of the people who ran out to help the taxi driver and Jean. They’re both in a terrible state of shock.
“The taxi driver jumped out his car covered in blood and screamed for help from another neighbour who was sitting in his garden.”
Within an hour of the stabbing a 33-year-old man was detained by armed police two miles away in Lochbrae Drive.
Police said yesterday that they were not looking for anyone else in connection with the attacks. It is unclear if there was any motive.
http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/glasgow-taxi-attack-witnesses-tell-3741526
Friday 20 June 2014
Questions in the House. Bilderberg, Carlyle and Addison Lee.
Yesterday, 19 June, the Chancellor was asked about his appearance at the Bilderberg Conference in Copenhagen recently. Carlyle Group are part of the 'Bilderbergers'.
Given the timing of the new Deregulation Bill and the Conference, Caroline Lucas reported on a Statement made by John Griffin of Addison Lee.
----------------------------------------------
29 April 2014, Parliament.
Caroline Lucas.
We need to ask why such potentially dangerous changes are being rushed through. We know that good money can be made from the taxi and private hire or minicab industry—Addison Lee has made so much that it is giving it away in large quantities to the Conservative party, and are we supposed to believe that Addison Lee has had no influence on the move to push amendments through before the publication of the Law Commission’s in-depth review of taxi and PHV legislation?
John Griffin, the boss of minicab giant Addison Lee, was embroiled in a cash-for-access scandal in 2012, after his firm gave £0.25 million to the Conservative party. At the time, Mr Griffin was quoted at saying:
“Politicians are not running the country. Businessmen are. They are the housewives. We give them the money.”
The taxi industry is vital to our economy. However, it is regulated using archaic regulations that serve neither providers nor, most importantly, customers.
The Taxis Act was introduced in 2008 to raise standards, promote road safety, reduce illegality, improve accessibility and facilitate fairer competition. To date, only parts of the Act have been implemented and so it has not been able to deliver those benefits.
The Act will improve driver testing and training; protect consumers by requiring taximeters and receipt printers; and remove the restriction in Belfast on private hire taxis being able to stand or ply for hire, an entitlement enjoyed by all taxis outside Belfast.
Consultations by my department have repeatedly indicated a desire to end these restrictive practices. Disability Action, IMTAC, the Consumer Council, Women's Aid, Victim Support, Belfast Chamber of Trade & Commerce, the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, Pubs of Ulster and Visit Belfast have all expressed support for these changes.
There are insufficient taxis which can pick up on Belfast's streets during peak periods to meet demand and ensure public order. Too much enforcement time is spent addressing relatively minor licensing offences, reducing resources available to address illegal and dangerous taxis. The changes will enhance the reputation of the taxi industry, increasing demand for all operators. Demand should be determined by the service provided and price.
It is my department's responsibility to set standards and to ensure compliance with those standards. It has no role in limiting choice in terms of how, when and what type of taxi to use.
I am aware of the concerns of the Belfast Public Hire taxi drivers. But I must balance these with the requirements to regulate for a safe, fair and fit-for-purpose taxi industry. I have concluded it is time to implement the remaining elements of the Act.
I have therefore set out the timetable for the reforms, including changes to the taxi licensing regime in January 2015. I will continue to work with industry stakeholders to realise the benefits of the Act.
The Taxis Act was introduced in 2008 to raise standards, promote road safety, reduce illegality, improve accessibility and facilitate fairer competition. To date, only parts of the Act have been implemented and so it has not been able to deliver those benefits.
The Act will improve driver testing and training; protect consumers by requiring taximeters and receipt printers; and remove the restriction in Belfast on private hire taxis being able to stand or ply for hire, an entitlement enjoyed by all taxis outside Belfast.
Consultations by my department have repeatedly indicated a desire to end these restrictive practices. Disability Action, IMTAC, the Consumer Council, Women's Aid, Victim Support, Belfast Chamber of Trade & Commerce, the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, Pubs of Ulster and Visit Belfast have all expressed support for these changes.
There are insufficient taxis which can pick up on Belfast's streets during peak periods to meet demand and ensure public order. Too much enforcement time is spent addressing relatively minor licensing offences, reducing resources available to address illegal and dangerous taxis. The changes will enhance the reputation of the taxi industry, increasing demand for all operators. Demand should be determined by the service provided and price.
It is my department's responsibility to set standards and to ensure compliance with those standards. It has no role in limiting choice in terms of how, when and what type of taxi to use.
I am aware of the concerns of the Belfast Public Hire taxi drivers. But I must balance these with the requirements to regulate for a safe, fair and fit-for-purpose taxi industry. I have concluded it is time to implement the remaining elements of the Act.
I have therefore set out the timetable for the reforms, including changes to the taxi licensing regime in January 2015. I will continue to work with industry stakeholders to realise the benefits of the Act.
Thursday 19 June 2014
NORTHERN IRELAND.
New rules are to be announced that will allow all taxis in Belfast to stop on the street and pick fares.
Environment Minister Mark H Durkan is expected to announce the new measures in the Assembly today, along with details of the timetable for the introduction of changes to the taxi licensing regime.
The changes are due to come into play in January next year.
Belfast’s taxi regime is one of the longest-running sagas to come under the Environment Minister's remit and has prompted heated debates, pitting private hire firms against public hire drivers who are permitted to ply for trade on the street.
Outside Belfast, all taxi drivers are allowed to pick up fares on the street, instead of having to wait for telephone bookings, as private hire drivers in the city have to do.
The current regulations, which have been described as “archaic” by the minister, were due to be replaced with new rules introduced as part of the Taxis Act in 2008.
These were promoted as raising standards, improving compliance, promoting road safety, reduce illegality, improving accessibility and allowing fairer competition, but only parts of the act have been implemented in the six years since it was brought in.
The rule changes also include new driver testing and training measures and taxi meters.
The introduction of the single-tier licensing system has undergone a series of delays and is opposed by Belfast public hire drivers who have mounted protests.
They said the one-tier system and deregulation of taxi meters had no benefit to Belfast public hire or the general public, insisting the rule change puts their livelihood at stake.
But supporters of the changes say they will tackle the problem of a shortage of taxis that can pick up fares during peak periods, meeting demand and ensuring public order.
The Department of the Environment has said it will introduce a maximum fare structure for all taxis operating here.
Former Environment Minister Alex Attwood said last year that taxi law and practice needed to be reformed and upgraded to deal with illegal operators, to improve business opportunities for all drivers, and to ensure the best service for customers and increasing number of tourists.
http://tinyurl.com/o8qzmc4
New rules are to be announced that will allow all taxis in Belfast to stop on the street and pick fares.
Environment Minister Mark H Durkan is expected to announce the new measures in the Assembly today, along with details of the timetable for the introduction of changes to the taxi licensing regime.
The changes are due to come into play in January next year.
Belfast’s taxi regime is one of the longest-running sagas to come under the Environment Minister's remit and has prompted heated debates, pitting private hire firms against public hire drivers who are permitted to ply for trade on the street.
Outside Belfast, all taxi drivers are allowed to pick up fares on the street, instead of having to wait for telephone bookings, as private hire drivers in the city have to do.
The current regulations, which have been described as “archaic” by the minister, were due to be replaced with new rules introduced as part of the Taxis Act in 2008.
These were promoted as raising standards, improving compliance, promoting road safety, reduce illegality, improving accessibility and allowing fairer competition, but only parts of the act have been implemented in the six years since it was brought in.
The rule changes also include new driver testing and training measures and taxi meters.
The introduction of the single-tier licensing system has undergone a series of delays and is opposed by Belfast public hire drivers who have mounted protests.
They said the one-tier system and deregulation of taxi meters had no benefit to Belfast public hire or the general public, insisting the rule change puts their livelihood at stake.
But supporters of the changes say they will tackle the problem of a shortage of taxis that can pick up fares during peak periods, meeting demand and ensuring public order.
The Department of the Environment has said it will introduce a maximum fare structure for all taxis operating here.
Former Environment Minister Alex Attwood said last year that taxi law and practice needed to be reformed and upgraded to deal with illegal operators, to improve business opportunities for all drivers, and to ensure the best service for customers and increasing number of tourists.
http://tinyurl.com/o8qzmc4
Wednesday 18 June 2014
STOKE
DETECTIVES are reviewing an unsolved murder case in the hope of finally discovering who killed a Stoke-on-Trent cabbie two decades ago.
A 49-year-old man from Stoke-on-Trent has been arrested in connection with the investigation into the murder of a taxi driver almost 24 years ago.
The driver, Steven Johnson, who was 25, was found a short distance from his taxi in a remote farm track in Mow Cop in Staffordshire three days before Christmas in 1990.
Police say a number of properties in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire have been searched in connection with the latest investigation.
The man, who was arrested on Monday, has since been bailed.
http://www.itv.com/news/central/update/2014-06-18/arrest-in-connection-with-taxi-driver-murder-almost-24-years-ago/?
Read more: http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Police-look-Mow-Cop-murderer/story-12581082-detail/story.html#ixzz353TNXzOc
http://www.warringtonguardian.co.uk/archive/2001/01/12/5289061.MURDER_APPEAL_10_YEARS_ON/?ref=arc
DETECTIVES are reviewing an unsolved murder case in the hope of finally discovering who killed a Stoke-on-Trent cabbie two decades ago.
A 49-year-old man from Stoke-on-Trent has been arrested in connection with the investigation into the murder of a taxi driver almost 24 years ago.
The driver, Steven Johnson, who was 25, was found a short distance from his taxi in a remote farm track in Mow Cop in Staffordshire three days before Christmas in 1990.
Police say a number of properties in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire have been searched in connection with the latest investigation.
The man, who was arrested on Monday, has since been bailed.
http://www.itv.com/news/central/update/2014-06-18/arrest-in-connection-with-taxi-driver-murder-almost-24-years-ago/?
Read more: http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Police-look-Mow-Cop-murderer/story-12581082-detail/story.html#ixzz353TNXzOc
http://www.warringtonguardian.co.uk/archive/2001/01/12/5289061.MURDER_APPEAL_10_YEARS_ON/?ref=arc
Tuesday 17 June 2014
Sprat to Catch a Mackerel.
There has been much debate about the Deregulation Bill, mostly concentrating on the matter of anybody driving PH cars when they are not on duty, and the safety issued involved in that stupid decision.
The much bigger issue of ending restrictions on 'cross border hiring' of PH cars, has to some extent been sidelined.
Do not forget some 'big players' have paid good money to have cross border hiring relaxed, it is essential to their business plan.
Having unlicensed drivers using their cars, is not part of that plan.
After Vera Baird Q.C,s much trumpeted statement yesterday, I would respectfully suggest THAT part (unlicensed drivers) of the Deregulation Bill will be dropped.
Ms Baird and others will rightly say they have been victorious.
The fact is, they may have been suckered.
There has been much debate about the Deregulation Bill, mostly concentrating on the matter of anybody driving PH cars when they are not on duty, and the safety issued involved in that stupid decision.
The much bigger issue of ending restrictions on 'cross border hiring' of PH cars, has to some extent been sidelined.
Do not forget some 'big players' have paid good money to have cross border hiring relaxed, it is essential to their business plan.
Having unlicensed drivers using their cars, is not part of that plan.
After Vera Baird Q.C,s much trumpeted statement yesterday, I would respectfully suggest THAT part (unlicensed drivers) of the Deregulation Bill will be dropped.
Ms Baird and others will rightly say they have been victorious.
The fact is, they may have been suckered.
Coventry MP Jim Cunningham is fighting changes to taxi and private hire cab laws – amid concerns they could put passengers at risk.
The reforms are included in the Government’s Deregulation Bill, which will be voted on by MPs on June 23.
The Government’s proposed reforms to the taxi and minicab trade will enable people without a minicab license drive one when it is “off duty”, end annual checks on drivers’ licences, and allow minicab operators to subcontract bookings to firms in other areas.
Campaigners, industry bodies and unions are among those who have warned the proposed changes could have “severe safety implications”.
Coventry South MP Mr Cunningham said: “At present minicabs in Coventry are driven by people who have undergone criminal, medical and background checks with Coventry City Council.
"But the Government are threatening to remove these safeguards, and let anyone drive an off duty minicab.
“I know many people in my constituency, particularly women and those with impaired mobility, rely on taxis and minicabs to get home safely.
"I’m worried the plans will increase the number of rogue drivers on the city’s roads. I’m calling on the Government to abandon these proposals and put passenger safety first.”
The Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which campaigns for better personal safety, has also raised concerns that enabling anyone to drive a licensed minicab will provide “greater opportunity for those intent on preying on women”, while the Local Government Association has also called for the plans to be scrapped.
Shadow roads minister Richard Burden added: “The Government’s changes to taxi and minicab law are poorly drafted, badly consulted on and could result in real risks to safety.”
http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/coventry-mp-says-taxi-reforms-7278097
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BLACKBURN
A TAXI boss has failed in his legal bid to force Blackburn with Darwen council to licence his white car as a hackney taxi which can pick up customers from the street.
Charles Oakes was furious the borough would not approve his white ‘Eurocab’ Peugeot E7 unless it was repainted, or licensed as a private hire vehicle only entitled to carry pre-booked fares.
Before the case, the council’s licensing committee confirmed its policy that all hackney carriages, other than two specified ‘London taxi cab’ designs, must be black.
Last week Judge Anthony Russell at Preston Crown Court dismissed Mr Oakes appeal.
Now the chairman of the Bolton-based Hackney Carriage Association is considering taking the council to the High Court in Manchester asking for a judicial review.
Council environment boss Jim Smith said: “We are very pleased the court agreed with the licensing sub-committee’s decision to refuse this application to licence a white, non-London style hackney carriage”.
Now the council faces further legal action from Mr Oakes and anger from Blackburn Taxi Association over new bodywork standards for the borough’s black cabs being debated tonight.
Blackburn with Darwen’s licensing committee will discuss the proposed regulations when it meets in the town hall. Taxi association vice-chairman Mohammed Mangera said: “We are pleased at the court decision on the taxi colour rules.
“However we are concerned at the proposed new bodywork regulations. They seem to be based on London taxis which cover many more miles. They would be unnecessary and too expensive from Blackburn drivers to afford.”
Licensing committee chairman John Wright said: “Everybody is unhappy at the current bodywork regulations which are difficult to administer.
“We have consulted the taxi trade and will debate new proposals before making a recommendation to coun Smith.” Mr Oakes said: “I am very disappointed about the court decision on my white taxi. Other councils approve different colours.
“Blackburn with Darwen council is stuck in the past. I am taking legal advice on a judicial review.
“This is not finished.
“The borough needs new bodywork standards but not ones based on London.”
-----------------------------------
NOTTINGHAM
A demonstration by around 400 Hackney carriage drivers in Nottingham this morning caused chaos during the rush hour.
The drivers were protesting about a row over private hire vehicles picking up passengers in the street.
They say the number of unbooked private cars picking up passengers is growing, which the council disputes.
Many people tweeted their frustration about the delays.
http://www.itv.com/news/central/2014-06-17/taxi-strike-causes-delays-in-nottingham/
The reforms are included in the Government’s Deregulation Bill, which will be voted on by MPs on June 23.
The Government’s proposed reforms to the taxi and minicab trade will enable people without a minicab license drive one when it is “off duty”, end annual checks on drivers’ licences, and allow minicab operators to subcontract bookings to firms in other areas.
Campaigners, industry bodies and unions are among those who have warned the proposed changes could have “severe safety implications”.
Coventry South MP Mr Cunningham said: “At present minicabs in Coventry are driven by people who have undergone criminal, medical and background checks with Coventry City Council.
"But the Government are threatening to remove these safeguards, and let anyone drive an off duty minicab.
“I know many people in my constituency, particularly women and those with impaired mobility, rely on taxis and minicabs to get home safely.
"I’m worried the plans will increase the number of rogue drivers on the city’s roads. I’m calling on the Government to abandon these proposals and put passenger safety first.”
The Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which campaigns for better personal safety, has also raised concerns that enabling anyone to drive a licensed minicab will provide “greater opportunity for those intent on preying on women”, while the Local Government Association has also called for the plans to be scrapped.
Shadow roads minister Richard Burden added: “The Government’s changes to taxi and minicab law are poorly drafted, badly consulted on and could result in real risks to safety.”
http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/coventry-mp-says-taxi-reforms-7278097
-----------------------------------------------------
BLACKBURN
A TAXI boss has failed in his legal bid to force Blackburn with Darwen council to licence his white car as a hackney taxi which can pick up customers from the street.
Charles Oakes was furious the borough would not approve his white ‘Eurocab’ Peugeot E7 unless it was repainted, or licensed as a private hire vehicle only entitled to carry pre-booked fares.
Before the case, the council’s licensing committee confirmed its policy that all hackney carriages, other than two specified ‘London taxi cab’ designs, must be black.
Last week Judge Anthony Russell at Preston Crown Court dismissed Mr Oakes appeal.
Now the chairman of the Bolton-based Hackney Carriage Association is considering taking the council to the High Court in Manchester asking for a judicial review.
Council environment boss Jim Smith said: “We are very pleased the court agreed with the licensing sub-committee’s decision to refuse this application to licence a white, non-London style hackney carriage”.
Now the council faces further legal action from Mr Oakes and anger from Blackburn Taxi Association over new bodywork standards for the borough’s black cabs being debated tonight.
Blackburn with Darwen’s licensing committee will discuss the proposed regulations when it meets in the town hall. Taxi association vice-chairman Mohammed Mangera said: “We are pleased at the court decision on the taxi colour rules.
“However we are concerned at the proposed new bodywork regulations. They seem to be based on London taxis which cover many more miles. They would be unnecessary and too expensive from Blackburn drivers to afford.”
Licensing committee chairman John Wright said: “Everybody is unhappy at the current bodywork regulations which are difficult to administer.
“We have consulted the taxi trade and will debate new proposals before making a recommendation to coun Smith.” Mr Oakes said: “I am very disappointed about the court decision on my white taxi. Other councils approve different colours.
“Blackburn with Darwen council is stuck in the past. I am taking legal advice on a judicial review.
“This is not finished.
“The borough needs new bodywork standards but not ones based on London.”
-----------------------------------
NOTTINGHAM
A demonstration by around 400 Hackney carriage drivers in Nottingham this morning caused chaos during the rush hour.
The drivers were protesting about a row over private hire vehicles picking up passengers in the street.
They say the number of unbooked private cars picking up passengers is growing, which the council disputes.
Many people tweeted their frustration about the delays.
http://www.itv.com/news/central/2014-06-17/taxi-strike-causes-delays-in-nottingham/
Monday 16 June 2014
Boris Johnson has warned that it would be "difficult" to ban the controversial cab app Uber, which has angered taxi drivers so much that they last week brought the capital to a standstill.
The London Mayor told reporters that he could understand taxi drivers' concerns, but admitted any attempt to ban Uber would risk a judicial review.
"I think it's a very difficult [question]," he told reporters at the launch of London's Tech Week. "We've gone to the high court to get a ruling on this, and the issue is basically: is the driver's mobile in the cab equivalent to a taxi meter? I can see why m'learned friends might think that it is, because it's receiving data about, or it's calculating, the distance and time and the fare.
"And there are other lawyers who say that it isn't, and that was the advice of the counsel to TfL. And so we've got a legal problem."
Black cab and licensed taxi drivers who went on the protest said the app was leading to unlicensed drivers being contacted, with no checks on whether they are legitimate.
Protesters in Trafalgar Square chanted "Boris, Boris, Boris, out, out, out", while taxi drivers beeped their horns as demonstrators held placards.
http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2014/06/16/boris-johnson-uber-london-difficult_n_5498908.html
The London Mayor told reporters that he could understand taxi drivers' concerns, but admitted any attempt to ban Uber would risk a judicial review.
"I think it's a very difficult [question]," he told reporters at the launch of London's Tech Week. "We've gone to the high court to get a ruling on this, and the issue is basically: is the driver's mobile in the cab equivalent to a taxi meter? I can see why m'learned friends might think that it is, because it's receiving data about, or it's calculating, the distance and time and the fare.
"And there are other lawyers who say that it isn't, and that was the advice of the counsel to TfL. And so we've got a legal problem."
Black cab and licensed taxi drivers who went on the protest said the app was leading to unlicensed drivers being contacted, with no checks on whether they are legitimate.
Protesters in Trafalgar Square chanted "Boris, Boris, Boris, out, out, out", while taxi drivers beeped their horns as demonstrators held placards.
http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2014/06/16/boris-johnson-uber-london-difficult_n_5498908.html
NEWCASTLE
Road rage taxi driver David Baillie convicted of causing death of Sarah Jane Burke
Talented art and design student Sarah Jane Burke was mown down and killed by a road rage driver, off-duty cabbie David Baillie
Killer driver David Baillie is facing a lengthy jail term after he was convicted of causing the death of a teenage girl during a road rage incident with another driver.
Talented art and design student Sarah Jane Burke, 17, was on her way home from college when off-duty taxi driver Baillie ploughed into her as she crossed the road.
A court heard Baillie was, at the time of the collision, involved in a road rage incident with the driver of a Vauxhall Corsa, which was in front of his Volvo S60 as they travelled along a 30mph road in Sunderland.
Newcastle Crown Court heard Baillie, who had a young child and a woman in the car, swerved and accelerated to get past the Corsa as Sarah was crossing the road.
Baillie, who afterwards described the youngster as “like a rabbit in the headlights”, crashed into her, throwing her into the air and she landed on her head. She suffered multiple injuries and died five days later in hospital from her injuries.
After jurors convicted Baillie of causing death by dangerous driving yesterday, he was warned he faces a substantial prison sentence.
Judge Paul Sloan QC is due to pass sentence on Baillie tomorrow and remanded him in custody.
After he was convicted, the court heard he has two previous convictions for dangerous driving, 10 for theft of a motor vehicle, five for driving with no insurance and one for driving while disqualified.
Prosecutors said that as he overtook the Corsa, Baillie was focusing on the other driver alongside him, rather than the road ahead.
Sarah, described in court as a “talented teenager”, had been on her way home from college on September 17 last year. The teenager, who lived with her parents and sister in Sunderland was crossing the city’s Ormonde Street around 5.30pm when she was hit.
Prosecutor Nick Dry said Baillie had been seen driving dangerously before the impact as he became enraged by Corsa driver Paul Potter.
Mr Potter, who was taking his 12-year-old daughter to her grandmother’s, said Baillie pulled up alongside him at traffic lights, where one lane filters into two.
Mr Potter, a bus driver, pulled away but said Baillie kept accelerating very close behind him and another witness estimated he was within a foot at times.
As they travelled along Ormonde Street, Baillie made the fatal overtaking move near a zebra crossing.
Mr Potter braked to let Baillie past but it was too late to prevent him hitting Sarah.
Baillie, 40, of Magdalene Place, Sunderland, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving as his trial was about to start but denied the more serious charge of causing death by dangerous driving.
http://www.thejournal.co.uk/news/north-east-news/road-rage-taxi-driver-david-7277102?
Road rage taxi driver David Baillie convicted of causing death of Sarah Jane Burke
Talented art and design student Sarah Jane Burke was mown down and killed by a road rage driver, off-duty cabbie David Baillie
Killer driver David Baillie is facing a lengthy jail term after he was convicted of causing the death of a teenage girl during a road rage incident with another driver.
Talented art and design student Sarah Jane Burke, 17, was on her way home from college when off-duty taxi driver Baillie ploughed into her as she crossed the road.
A court heard Baillie was, at the time of the collision, involved in a road rage incident with the driver of a Vauxhall Corsa, which was in front of his Volvo S60 as they travelled along a 30mph road in Sunderland.
Newcastle Crown Court heard Baillie, who had a young child and a woman in the car, swerved and accelerated to get past the Corsa as Sarah was crossing the road.
Baillie, who afterwards described the youngster as “like a rabbit in the headlights”, crashed into her, throwing her into the air and she landed on her head. She suffered multiple injuries and died five days later in hospital from her injuries.
After jurors convicted Baillie of causing death by dangerous driving yesterday, he was warned he faces a substantial prison sentence.
Judge Paul Sloan QC is due to pass sentence on Baillie tomorrow and remanded him in custody.
After he was convicted, the court heard he has two previous convictions for dangerous driving, 10 for theft of a motor vehicle, five for driving with no insurance and one for driving while disqualified.
Prosecutors said that as he overtook the Corsa, Baillie was focusing on the other driver alongside him, rather than the road ahead.
Sarah, described in court as a “talented teenager”, had been on her way home from college on September 17 last year. The teenager, who lived with her parents and sister in Sunderland was crossing the city’s Ormonde Street around 5.30pm when she was hit.
Prosecutor Nick Dry said Baillie had been seen driving dangerously before the impact as he became enraged by Corsa driver Paul Potter.
Mr Potter, who was taking his 12-year-old daughter to her grandmother’s, said Baillie pulled up alongside him at traffic lights, where one lane filters into two.
Mr Potter, a bus driver, pulled away but said Baillie kept accelerating very close behind him and another witness estimated he was within a foot at times.
As they travelled along Ormonde Street, Baillie made the fatal overtaking move near a zebra crossing.
Mr Potter braked to let Baillie past but it was too late to prevent him hitting Sarah.
Baillie, 40, of Magdalene Place, Sunderland, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving as his trial was about to start but denied the more serious charge of causing death by dangerous driving.
http://www.thejournal.co.uk/news/north-east-news/road-rage-taxi-driver-david-7277102?
Sunday 15 June 2014
HAILO launch their publicity machine.
http://www.bloomberg.com/video/uber-creates-an-unlevel-playing-field-zeghibe-06LZeliCR4i_Ns6ljFS9rg.html
http://www.bloomberg.com/video/uber-creates-an-unlevel-playing-field-zeghibe-06LZeliCR4i_Ns6ljFS9rg.html
Saturday 14 June 2014
DUBLIN. TAXI Hi JACKING INCREASES
Gardaí are investigating an attempted car-jacking in Dublin this morning.
The incident happened just before 3am when three men who were travelling in a taxi from Tallaght ordered the driver to get out of the car.
The taxi driver managed to take the keys from the ignition and run towards James Street, where he alerted gardaí.
It is understood no one sustained any serious injuries.
Gardaí recovered the car and investigations are continuing.
No arrests have been made.
http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/dublin-taxi-driver-grabs-keys-runs-from-carjackers-633441.html
http://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/people/behind-the-news-eoin-candon-taxi-driver-1.1831474
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Free taxi rides home for England fans in Birmingham
Football fans in Birmingham are being offered free taxi rides home after England's World Cup match tonight.
A taxi firm based in the city will have five cabs at the Colmore Row rank between 1am and 2am as part of an anti-drink-driving campaign run by Think!
The government run campaign has found that three-quarters of fans in Birmingham are planning to drink alcohol during the game against Italy, but a sixth have not worked out how they are getting home afterwards.
Bosses say hope the initiative will remind fans not to drink and drive.
http://www.itv.com/news/central/update/2014-06-14/free-taxi-rides-home-for-england-fans-in-birmingham/?
---------------------------------------------------
SKEGNESS
Taxi drivers are in dispute over who can pick up and drop off passengers at Skegness Railway Station.
East Lindsey District Council (ELDC) has written to drivers reminding them only those who pay for permits with East Midlands Trains (EMT) can use the rank at the station’s main forecourt.
A driver working from the rank said: “We pay to serve customers walking off trains, why should other taxis poach our customers?”
Some drivers believe this ruling is unfair on those who don’t pay the £375 annual permit; accepting they can’t tout trade, but feel they should be allowed to use it if private customers request their service.
Dave Daubney, of Dave’s Taxis, said: “If customers approach us at that rank, we direct them to the driver’s ranked there, if private customers call us to the station, I can’t see the problem.”
Some driver’s also claim they get unnecessarily caught in traffic on the one-way system, having to drop off at the rear entrance.
Mel, of Mel’s Taxis, said: “The back entrance is used as an emergency exit and we are blocking it off, EMT are thinking more about the drivers than their passengers.”
ELDC say drivers without permits must only use the rear of the station on Richmond Drive and if approached by station staff, must provide the name of the person the booking is for. If this isn’t provided, drivers will be asked to move on and may be liable for police action.
http://www.skegnessstandard.co.uk/news/local/taxi-rift-at-the-railway-station-1-6118387
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Spot checks find faults in half of Reading's cabs and private hire vehicles
Of the nine Reading vehicles, one had two bald tyres, no road tax disc displayed and an insecure bumper
Reading Borough Council licensing officers and Thames Valley Police carried out a joint operation in Palmer Park last month.
Over a four-hour period starting at 8am on Monday, May 12, they pulled in nine vehicles licensed by Reading Borough Council and a further five from out-of-town areas.
Of the nine Reading vehicles, one had two bald tyres, no road tax disc displayed and an insecure bumper.
The driver received penalty points on his licence and the vehicle was suspended from further use until the faults were put right.
The other faults and penalties for Reading-licensed vehicles were as follows:
- For damage to a front wing and a damaged fire extinguisher, the driver received penalty points and the vehicle was suspended from use.
- For an insecure protective rubber gaiter on the steering rack, the vehicle was suspended.
- For an improperly secured licence plate and an out-of-date fire extinguisher, the vehicle was suspended.
- For two worn suspension arm bushes on his vehicle, the driver was given five days to replace them.
- For a tyre worn and very near the legal limit, the driver was warned and told the vehicle would be checked again in five days.
One of the out-of-town vehicles had an expired hackney carriage licence plate and no hackney carriage or private hire badge.
This vehicle was not registered with the DVLA to this driver.
Police and licensing officers from areas outside Reading will take appropriate action on the following issues found on out-of-town vehicles:
- One had no hackney carriage badge displayed.
- One had a time-expired fire extinguisher.
- A hackney carriage whose licence plate was not securely attached and displayed on the rear windscreen and brake pads close to the legal limit.
- Another black cab was not displaying a hackney carriage vehicle licence plate.
In an unrelated court case, on Thursday, May 29, at Reading Magistrates Court, Mohammed Asghar, a previously licensed private hire driver, admitted three offences of plying for hire, using a vehicle without the appropriate private hire licence plate and driving without insurance.
Asghar, 23, of Hazel Crescent, Whitley, was fined £120 for plying for hire, £120 for using the vehicle without a licence plate and £200 and a licence endorsement for having no insurance.
He was also disqualified from driving for six months.
Councillor Paul Gittings, lead councillor for culture, sport and consumer services, said: “We take the safety of residents who use hackney carriages and private hire cars extremely seriously, and this is why we work with other agencies to carry out regular spot checks on these vehicles.
“Whilst we know that most drivers comply with the terms of their licences and with the law, we are committed to taking appropriate action against any who fail to do so.”
http://www.getreading.co.uk/news/local-news/spot-checks-find-faults-half-7248733
-------------------------------------------------
Gardaí are investigating an attempted car-jacking in Dublin this morning.
The incident happened just before 3am when three men who were travelling in a taxi from Tallaght ordered the driver to get out of the car.
The taxi driver managed to take the keys from the ignition and run towards James Street, where he alerted gardaí.
It is understood no one sustained any serious injuries.
Gardaí recovered the car and investigations are continuing.
No arrests have been made.
http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/dublin-taxi-driver-grabs-keys-runs-from-carjackers-633441.html
http://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/people/behind-the-news-eoin-candon-taxi-driver-1.1831474
------------------------------------------------------------------
Free taxi rides home for England fans in Birmingham
Football fans in Birmingham are being offered free taxi rides home after England's World Cup match tonight.
A taxi firm based in the city will have five cabs at the Colmore Row rank between 1am and 2am as part of an anti-drink-driving campaign run by Think!
The government run campaign has found that three-quarters of fans in Birmingham are planning to drink alcohol during the game against Italy, but a sixth have not worked out how they are getting home afterwards.
Bosses say hope the initiative will remind fans not to drink and drive.
http://www.itv.com/news/central/update/2014-06-14/free-taxi-rides-home-for-england-fans-in-birmingham/?
---------------------------------------------------
SKEGNESS
Taxi drivers are in dispute over who can pick up and drop off passengers at Skegness Railway Station.
East Lindsey District Council (ELDC) has written to drivers reminding them only those who pay for permits with East Midlands Trains (EMT) can use the rank at the station’s main forecourt.
A driver working from the rank said: “We pay to serve customers walking off trains, why should other taxis poach our customers?”
Some drivers believe this ruling is unfair on those who don’t pay the £375 annual permit; accepting they can’t tout trade, but feel they should be allowed to use it if private customers request their service.
Dave Daubney, of Dave’s Taxis, said: “If customers approach us at that rank, we direct them to the driver’s ranked there, if private customers call us to the station, I can’t see the problem.”
Some driver’s also claim they get unnecessarily caught in traffic on the one-way system, having to drop off at the rear entrance.
Mel, of Mel’s Taxis, said: “The back entrance is used as an emergency exit and we are blocking it off, EMT are thinking more about the drivers than their passengers.”
ELDC say drivers without permits must only use the rear of the station on Richmond Drive and if approached by station staff, must provide the name of the person the booking is for. If this isn’t provided, drivers will be asked to move on and may be liable for police action.
http://www.skegnessstandard.co.uk/news/local/taxi-rift-at-the-railway-station-1-6118387
----------------------------------------------------------
Spot checks find faults in half of Reading's cabs and private hire vehicles
Of the nine Reading vehicles, one had two bald tyres, no road tax disc displayed and an insecure bumper
Reading Borough Council licensing officers and Thames Valley Police carried out a joint operation in Palmer Park last month.
Over a four-hour period starting at 8am on Monday, May 12, they pulled in nine vehicles licensed by Reading Borough Council and a further five from out-of-town areas.
Of the nine Reading vehicles, one had two bald tyres, no road tax disc displayed and an insecure bumper.
The driver received penalty points on his licence and the vehicle was suspended from further use until the faults were put right.
The other faults and penalties for Reading-licensed vehicles were as follows:
- For damage to a front wing and a damaged fire extinguisher, the driver received penalty points and the vehicle was suspended from use.
- For an insecure protective rubber gaiter on the steering rack, the vehicle was suspended.
- For an improperly secured licence plate and an out-of-date fire extinguisher, the vehicle was suspended.
- For two worn suspension arm bushes on his vehicle, the driver was given five days to replace them.
- For a tyre worn and very near the legal limit, the driver was warned and told the vehicle would be checked again in five days.
One of the out-of-town vehicles had an expired hackney carriage licence plate and no hackney carriage or private hire badge.
This vehicle was not registered with the DVLA to this driver.
Police and licensing officers from areas outside Reading will take appropriate action on the following issues found on out-of-town vehicles:
- One had no hackney carriage badge displayed.
- One had a time-expired fire extinguisher.
- A hackney carriage whose licence plate was not securely attached and displayed on the rear windscreen and brake pads close to the legal limit.
- Another black cab was not displaying a hackney carriage vehicle licence plate.
In an unrelated court case, on Thursday, May 29, at Reading Magistrates Court, Mohammed Asghar, a previously licensed private hire driver, admitted three offences of plying for hire, using a vehicle without the appropriate private hire licence plate and driving without insurance.
Asghar, 23, of Hazel Crescent, Whitley, was fined £120 for plying for hire, £120 for using the vehicle without a licence plate and £200 and a licence endorsement for having no insurance.
He was also disqualified from driving for six months.
Councillor Paul Gittings, lead councillor for culture, sport and consumer services, said: “We take the safety of residents who use hackney carriages and private hire cars extremely seriously, and this is why we work with other agencies to carry out regular spot checks on these vehicles.
“Whilst we know that most drivers comply with the terms of their licences and with the law, we are committed to taking appropriate action against any who fail to do so.”
http://www.getreading.co.uk/news/local-news/spot-checks-find-faults-half-7248733
-------------------------------------------------
Thursday 12 June 2014
Deregulation Bill
The Dereg bill has its Report stage and 3rd reading a week on Monday, June 23. It will then be sent up to the Lords. Do not be surprised if this happens within days of the 23 rd.
This is where it will get interesting. Many trade group's have already started to petition members of the upper house. It will be interesting to see how effective they are in those representation's.
The Dereg bill has its Report stage and 3rd reading a week on Monday, June 23. It will then be sent up to the Lords. Do not be surprised if this happens within days of the 23 rd.
This is where it will get interesting. Many trade group's have already started to petition members of the upper house. It will be interesting to see how effective they are in those representation's.
BARCA BAN UBER.
Spain's Catalonia region on Tuesday announced plans to fine drivers who use the taxi app Uber as much as €6,000 ($8,000), while taxi drivers across Europe on Wednesday will be protesting against the app.
Drivers could also see their vehicles impounded and they would have to immediately stop using Uber, Catalonia's Territory and Sustainability Department said in a statement.
The fines would not affect passengers using Uber to order these 'illegal' taxi services, the department told The Local by phone.
The department also confirmed only taxi drivers with official authorization could operate such 'taxi' services in the region.
The move comes a day after Spain's public works and transport ministry backed down on plans to slap Uber users with fines of up to €600 ($800) after the European Commission labelled the move as extreme.
A spokesperson for the public works and transport ministry said, however, they would still target drivers using the Uber service to make a profit.
It is not yet clear how this will work in practice.
Taxi drivers around Spain want tough action against the increasingly popular app, saying it creates unfair competition. Taxi strikes are planned in Madrid and Barcelona on Wednesday.
Other strikes are planned in France, Germany and London.
Vice President of the European Commission Nellie Kroes has responded to the strikes by saying that technology is not the problem, and that a solution needs to be found.
http://www.thelocal.es/20140611/catalonia-bans-uber-taxi-app
Spain's Catalonia region on Tuesday announced plans to fine drivers who use the taxi app Uber as much as €6,000 ($8,000), while taxi drivers across Europe on Wednesday will be protesting against the app.
Drivers could also see their vehicles impounded and they would have to immediately stop using Uber, Catalonia's Territory and Sustainability Department said in a statement.
The fines would not affect passengers using Uber to order these 'illegal' taxi services, the department told The Local by phone.
The department also confirmed only taxi drivers with official authorization could operate such 'taxi' services in the region.
The move comes a day after Spain's public works and transport ministry backed down on plans to slap Uber users with fines of up to €600 ($800) after the European Commission labelled the move as extreme.
A spokesperson for the public works and transport ministry said, however, they would still target drivers using the Uber service to make a profit.
It is not yet clear how this will work in practice.
Taxi drivers around Spain want tough action against the increasingly popular app, saying it creates unfair competition. Taxi strikes are planned in Madrid and Barcelona on Wednesday.
Other strikes are planned in France, Germany and London.
Vice President of the European Commission Nellie Kroes has responded to the strikes by saying that technology is not the problem, and that a solution needs to be found.
http://www.thelocal.es/20140611/catalonia-bans-uber-taxi-app
Wednesday 11 June 2014
NOTTINGHAM.
HUNDREDS of taxi drivers are set to go on strike in a row over private-hire vehicles picking up passengers in the street.
Nottingham Licensed Taxi Owners' and Drivers' Association, which represents those behind the wheel of hackney carriages, believes the city council is not taking a tough enough stance on the problem.
Driver Nadeem Haider will be among those stopping work for two hours next Tuesday and Wednesday.
He said the growing number of un-booked private-hire cars picking up customers meant there was a "free-for-all" in the city centre at weekends.
He said: "It is not only hurting our business but it is illegal for them to pick up customers if they haven't already booked.
"We pay a lot of money to the council and believe that we should be better looked after. The council should clamp down on this."
Hackney carriage drivers, who operate the dark-green London-style taxis, pay hundreds of pounds to the council for their licences.
They are licensed to pick up passengers from city streets without pre-booking. Private- hire cars are breaking the law if they do so, with passengers not being insured in the event of an accident.
The council says it is "disappointed" by the action, after chief executive Ian Curryer agreed to talks with drivers.
Councillor Jane Urquhart, portfolio holder for planning and transport, said: "We don't believe illegal plying for hire by private taxis is under way in Nottingham on anything like the scale they suggest.
"They are failing to recognise that, whereas previously private taxis were generally booked from home before people went out for the night, customers now have the option to book private taxis from wherever they are in the city, now that most people have mobile phones and apps that make this easy to do.
"It's therefore a flawed assumption that private taxis picking up fares in the city are illegal and uninsured."
The association represents 411 hackney carriages and about 700 drivers, with many taxis shared by two drivers. It is not clear how many will strike, with some telling the Post yesterday they did not intend to.
Mark Cartledge, a driver with private-hire firm DG Cars, believes the action is meaningless.
He said: "I don't know why they are doing it. The council look after their interests well.
"We would like to have the chance to legally ply for hire but we cannot do so. The action will achieve nothing."
http://www.nottinghampost.com/TAXIS-SET-STRIKE/story-21224317-detail/story.html#ixzz34Ov4ii7V
HUNDREDS of taxi drivers are set to go on strike in a row over private-hire vehicles picking up passengers in the street.
Nottingham Licensed Taxi Owners' and Drivers' Association, which represents those behind the wheel of hackney carriages, believes the city council is not taking a tough enough stance on the problem.
Driver Nadeem Haider will be among those stopping work for two hours next Tuesday and Wednesday.
He said the growing number of un-booked private-hire cars picking up customers meant there was a "free-for-all" in the city centre at weekends.
He said: "It is not only hurting our business but it is illegal for them to pick up customers if they haven't already booked.
"We pay a lot of money to the council and believe that we should be better looked after. The council should clamp down on this."
Hackney carriage drivers, who operate the dark-green London-style taxis, pay hundreds of pounds to the council for their licences.
They are licensed to pick up passengers from city streets without pre-booking. Private- hire cars are breaking the law if they do so, with passengers not being insured in the event of an accident.
The council says it is "disappointed" by the action, after chief executive Ian Curryer agreed to talks with drivers.
Councillor Jane Urquhart, portfolio holder for planning and transport, said: "We don't believe illegal plying for hire by private taxis is under way in Nottingham on anything like the scale they suggest.
"They are failing to recognise that, whereas previously private taxis were generally booked from home before people went out for the night, customers now have the option to book private taxis from wherever they are in the city, now that most people have mobile phones and apps that make this easy to do.
"It's therefore a flawed assumption that private taxis picking up fares in the city are illegal and uninsured."
The association represents 411 hackney carriages and about 700 drivers, with many taxis shared by two drivers. It is not clear how many will strike, with some telling the Post yesterday they did not intend to.
Mark Cartledge, a driver with private-hire firm DG Cars, believes the action is meaningless.
He said: "I don't know why they are doing it. The council look after their interests well.
"We would like to have the chance to legally ply for hire but we cannot do so. The action will achieve nothing."
http://www.nottinghampost.com/TAXIS-SET-STRIKE/story-21224317-detail/story.html#ixzz34Ov4ii7V
Photos from yesterday's London Demo.
http://www.supercabby.co.uk/photos/stormcabs-photos-from-the-demo/
--------------------------------------------------------
WASHINGTON, June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is a statement from Teamsters International Union Vice President and Local 922 President Ferline Buie about today's worldwide taxi driver protests against Uber.
"As president of Teamsters Local 922 in Washington, D.C., which is affiliated with the Washington, D.C. Taxi Operators Association, I express our solidarity with today's protests by taxi drivers in city after city across Europe. The drivers are calling for fairness and asking that if the private sedan services are allowed to operate that they do so on a level playing field. Uber is currently operating without having to comply with the same rules and regulations that taxi drivers do.
"In Washington, D.C., drivers are asking the same questions and making similar demands. It is time for the D.C. City Council to do its job. We demand that the city council order Uber, Lyft and other private sedan services to cease and desist operations until fair regulations are put in place. We applaud the Commonwealth of Virginia's decision last week to order the private sedan companies to stop operating until fair regulations are in place. The private sedan companies are stealing our members' work and they continue to operate illegally.
"The drivers' fight in Europe is our fight. Their demands for government action are our demands here in Washington, D.C.
"We are watching these protests carefully and they inspire our drivers to keep up the fight for fairness!"
-------------------------------------------
A fake taxi driver has been found guilty of a serious sexual assault in Surrey
A man, who pretended to be a taxi driver, seriously sexually assaulted woman in Surrey because she was vulnerable.
The 39 year-old has been found guilty by a jury at the Old Bailey.
The victim was trying to get home after a night out in London when she got into Paul Causers unlicensed cab on Sunday 3rd August last year.
The court heard throughout the journey Causer touched her inappropriately, ignoring her pleas to stop. He made several attempts to withdraw up to £600 on her bank card, stopping on the way in a bid to take out money, which he was unsuccessful in doing.
He then drove her to Bone Mill Lane in Godstone, forced himself on her and then dumped her on the side of the road. She was found by a local security guard at 4.30am.
Causer - who is from Barfleur Lane in Deptford - will be sentenced in July.
Causer was apprehended following extensive enquiries, including using the 'Where's My Phone' application on the victim's iPhone. Through that officers identified it as being at an address in Swanscombe, Kent where he is known to have spent time.
Causer is also known to have connections in Cornwall, Kent and the London area.
Detective Sergeant Adele Robertson of the Sexual Offences Investigation Team said: "Causer is a dangerous man who specifically targeted the victim, in this case preying on her vulnerability in the early hours of the morning after she had left a nightclub. It was a deeply distressing incident for her and I hope today's verdict will help her move on with her life.
"I would encourage any victim of a sexual offence to come forward to Surrey Police and report any similar incidents."
http://www.964eagle.co.uk/news/local-news/1308836/a-fake-taxi-driver-has-been-found-guilty-of-a-serious-sexual-assault-in-surrey/
--------------------------------------------------------
http://www.safe-girl.co.uk/blog/2014/06/the-dangers-of-getting-in-a-minicab/
I was contacted on Twitter this week and asked to highlight the dangers of taking a minicab.
I had not thought of this angle before, and I have to say we at Safe-Girl are very shocked by the statistics.
Police figures show that 214 women were sexually assaulted in the capital last year after getting into illegal minicabs and 54 raped, but studies suggest that so many go unreported the actual amount of sexual attacks could be as many as 700 in a 7 month period.
Just two days ago, a judge issued an alarming warning to minicab passengers that they cannot expect to travel in safety.
Jailing an asylum seeker for eight years for raping a secretary, Recorder Michael Sayers, QC, said those hiring a private taxi simply had no way of knowing the driver’s background.
He called for compulsory licensing of all cab drivers after police checks on the firm where the rapist worked revealed that not one driver was being legally employed.
“It appears that nobody can travel in minicabs with any degree of assurance or safety, as demonstrated by the facts in this case,” said the judge.
“At the moment, when a member of the public takes a cab he has no assurance that the driver is who he claims to be or has got any insurance or driving licence. He has no way of knowing how the driver conducts his business.
“This is something that should be investigated. If minicab drivers are driving around with false identities, it is something that should be looked into and investigated properly. I find it quite a worrying state of affairs.”
The case has highlighted a growing problem in our cities, where a burgeoning nightclub culture and lack of public transport has led to a boom in the use of minicabs.
These are separate from licensed black cabs and are supposed to be booked in advance over the telephone or in person at a central office.
There are around 100,000 private hire drivers in the UK. Powers to license them have been on the statute book since 1998 but the law’s enforcement depends heavily on the policy of the local authority.
In London, men and women desperate to get home have resorted to hailing unlicensed “taxi touts” who ply for trade by driving through the city’s entertainment areas.
Razaq Assadullah, 31, who worked for Speedline Cars in Stratford, East London, was an asylum seeker who came to Britain from Afghanistan in 2000.
He was convicted last December of raping the 28-year-old secretary and was sentenced at the Old Bailey yesterday.
In a reference to the rapist’s background, the judge told him: “You were certainly aware of the gravity of the crime of rape as it would be met by a sentence of death by stoning.”
The woman got into the cab after a night out in a wine bar in Stratford last July.
After dropping off her best friend, Assadullah parked the car and turned off the engine before attacking the woman in the back seat. He stopped only when disturbed by two cyclists.
The Old Bailey heard that Assadullah, from Plaistow, East London, set himself up as a cab driver by buying a false driving licence for £200 and using a false name. Police checks revealed he was driving without insurance.
Further inquiries into the rapist’s firm revealed that each of its 32 drivers was working illegally in some way – either through their immigration status or by claiming benefit while working.
The judge told Assadullah: “With a mixture of arrogance and cynical opportunism you abused your position of trust.
“She was placed in your cab by a friend who paid you to get her home safely.
“She was put through a terrifying ordeal and she faced the added trauma of not knowing whether you might be a murderer as well as a rapist.”
Assadullah, a father of three, was granted leave to remain last year after claiming he had been tortured by the Taliban. The judge recommended his deportation.
Richard Massett, of the London Taxi Drivers’ Association, said: “It’s been five years since regulation was approved in Parliament and nothing has happened.
“We advise women travelling home alone late at night to use a licensed black cab if possible or, if not, to book a minicab by phone and ensure that it comes from the place where they booked it.”
Detective Constable Malcolm Samuels, of the Metropolitan Police, said that because many minicab drivers work on a self-employed basis there is little incentive for the firm’s owner to check on them.
-----------------------------------------------------
http://www.supercabby.co.uk/photos/stormcabs-photos-from-the-demo/
--------------------------------------------------------
WASHINGTON, June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is a statement from Teamsters International Union Vice President and Local 922 President Ferline Buie about today's worldwide taxi driver protests against Uber.
"As president of Teamsters Local 922 in Washington, D.C., which is affiliated with the Washington, D.C. Taxi Operators Association, I express our solidarity with today's protests by taxi drivers in city after city across Europe. The drivers are calling for fairness and asking that if the private sedan services are allowed to operate that they do so on a level playing field. Uber is currently operating without having to comply with the same rules and regulations that taxi drivers do.
"In Washington, D.C., drivers are asking the same questions and making similar demands. It is time for the D.C. City Council to do its job. We demand that the city council order Uber, Lyft and other private sedan services to cease and desist operations until fair regulations are put in place. We applaud the Commonwealth of Virginia's decision last week to order the private sedan companies to stop operating until fair regulations are in place. The private sedan companies are stealing our members' work and they continue to operate illegally.
"The drivers' fight in Europe is our fight. Their demands for government action are our demands here in Washington, D.C.
"We are watching these protests carefully and they inspire our drivers to keep up the fight for fairness!"
-------------------------------------------
A fake taxi driver has been found guilty of a serious sexual assault in Surrey
A man, who pretended to be a taxi driver, seriously sexually assaulted woman in Surrey because she was vulnerable.
The 39 year-old has been found guilty by a jury at the Old Bailey.
The victim was trying to get home after a night out in London when she got into Paul Causers unlicensed cab on Sunday 3rd August last year.
The court heard throughout the journey Causer touched her inappropriately, ignoring her pleas to stop. He made several attempts to withdraw up to £600 on her bank card, stopping on the way in a bid to take out money, which he was unsuccessful in doing.
He then drove her to Bone Mill Lane in Godstone, forced himself on her and then dumped her on the side of the road. She was found by a local security guard at 4.30am.
Causer - who is from Barfleur Lane in Deptford - will be sentenced in July.
Causer was apprehended following extensive enquiries, including using the 'Where's My Phone' application on the victim's iPhone. Through that officers identified it as being at an address in Swanscombe, Kent where he is known to have spent time.
Causer is also known to have connections in Cornwall, Kent and the London area.
Detective Sergeant Adele Robertson of the Sexual Offences Investigation Team said: "Causer is a dangerous man who specifically targeted the victim, in this case preying on her vulnerability in the early hours of the morning after she had left a nightclub. It was a deeply distressing incident for her and I hope today's verdict will help her move on with her life.
"I would encourage any victim of a sexual offence to come forward to Surrey Police and report any similar incidents."
http://www.964eagle.co.uk/news/local-news/1308836/a-fake-taxi-driver-has-been-found-guilty-of-a-serious-sexual-assault-in-surrey/
--------------------------------------------------------
http://www.safe-girl.co.uk/blog/2014/06/the-dangers-of-getting-in-a-minicab/
I was contacted on Twitter this week and asked to highlight the dangers of taking a minicab.
I had not thought of this angle before, and I have to say we at Safe-Girl are very shocked by the statistics.
Police figures show that 214 women were sexually assaulted in the capital last year after getting into illegal minicabs and 54 raped, but studies suggest that so many go unreported the actual amount of sexual attacks could be as many as 700 in a 7 month period.
Just two days ago, a judge issued an alarming warning to minicab passengers that they cannot expect to travel in safety.
Jailing an asylum seeker for eight years for raping a secretary, Recorder Michael Sayers, QC, said those hiring a private taxi simply had no way of knowing the driver’s background.
He called for compulsory licensing of all cab drivers after police checks on the firm where the rapist worked revealed that not one driver was being legally employed.
“It appears that nobody can travel in minicabs with any degree of assurance or safety, as demonstrated by the facts in this case,” said the judge.
“At the moment, when a member of the public takes a cab he has no assurance that the driver is who he claims to be or has got any insurance or driving licence. He has no way of knowing how the driver conducts his business.
“This is something that should be investigated. If minicab drivers are driving around with false identities, it is something that should be looked into and investigated properly. I find it quite a worrying state of affairs.”
The case has highlighted a growing problem in our cities, where a burgeoning nightclub culture and lack of public transport has led to a boom in the use of minicabs.
These are separate from licensed black cabs and are supposed to be booked in advance over the telephone or in person at a central office.
There are around 100,000 private hire drivers in the UK. Powers to license them have been on the statute book since 1998 but the law’s enforcement depends heavily on the policy of the local authority.
In London, men and women desperate to get home have resorted to hailing unlicensed “taxi touts” who ply for trade by driving through the city’s entertainment areas.
Razaq Assadullah, 31, who worked for Speedline Cars in Stratford, East London, was an asylum seeker who came to Britain from Afghanistan in 2000.
He was convicted last December of raping the 28-year-old secretary and was sentenced at the Old Bailey yesterday.
In a reference to the rapist’s background, the judge told him: “You were certainly aware of the gravity of the crime of rape as it would be met by a sentence of death by stoning.”
The woman got into the cab after a night out in a wine bar in Stratford last July.
After dropping off her best friend, Assadullah parked the car and turned off the engine before attacking the woman in the back seat. He stopped only when disturbed by two cyclists.
The Old Bailey heard that Assadullah, from Plaistow, East London, set himself up as a cab driver by buying a false driving licence for £200 and using a false name. Police checks revealed he was driving without insurance.
Further inquiries into the rapist’s firm revealed that each of its 32 drivers was working illegally in some way – either through their immigration status or by claiming benefit while working.
The judge told Assadullah: “With a mixture of arrogance and cynical opportunism you abused your position of trust.
“She was placed in your cab by a friend who paid you to get her home safely.
“She was put through a terrifying ordeal and she faced the added trauma of not knowing whether you might be a murderer as well as a rapist.”
Assadullah, a father of three, was granted leave to remain last year after claiming he had been tortured by the Taliban. The judge recommended his deportation.
Richard Massett, of the London Taxi Drivers’ Association, said: “It’s been five years since regulation was approved in Parliament and nothing has happened.
“We advise women travelling home alone late at night to use a licensed black cab if possible or, if not, to book a minicab by phone and ensure that it comes from the place where they booked it.”
Detective Constable Malcolm Samuels, of the Metropolitan Police, said that because many minicab drivers work on a self-employed basis there is little incentive for the firm’s owner to check on them.
-----------------------------------------------------
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