Bradford and National

FOREIGN taxi drivers should have to pass a “banter” test, says Ukip leader Nigel Farage.

Council chiefs in Bradford are introducing a “conversation check” after it was revealed many cabbies could not even chat about the weather.

Mr Farage, 50, wants the initiative brought in nationwide.

He said: “Travelling by taxi is expensive and one of the compensations is a good chat and a good laugh. I myself have travelled in many cabs in London with reputable companies who have Romanian drivers using sat-nav barely able to converse a word with me.

“Speaking the language is a high requirement for an integrated society. So I would say Bradford is entirely within its rights to do this.”
Minicab bosses in Bradford admitted they were regularly asked for English-speaking drivers.

Cabbies have only had to read out a paragraph from a book to prove they have a basic understanding of English.

Wayne Casey, administration officer for the National Taxi Association, said: “Being able to communicate with a passenger is important.”

Mr Farage also backed calls yesterday for people who are not British citizens to be stripped of their right to vote in a general election.

Warning : Photos of Farage and Wayne Casey of the NTA are prominent in the following links. Do not open if kids are about.

http://www.dailystar.co.uk/news/latest-news/418614/Nigel-Farage-says-taxi-drivers-should-speak-good-English

http://goo.gl/rIn5BM