A consultation is underway over plans to modernise the legal framework for licensing taxis and private hire vehicles in Wales.
As part of the new devolved settlement for Wales to be introduced through the Wales Act 2017, the regulation of taxis and private hire vehicles will become a matter within the legislative competence of the National Assembly for Wales.
Ken Skates AM in the foreword to the consultation says: “Taxis and private hire vehicles are an important method of transport in enabling disabled vulnerable people in our society to maintain independent living in the community.
Travel by taxis and private hire vehicle is simply the only transport option for many people. Despite the importance of this sector to our public transport ambitions, the industry remains governed by laws made when the horse drawn hackneys were a common feature on our streets. Put simply, the law is complicated, outdated and is in need of reform.
“The commencement of certain provisions in the Wales Act 2017 will for the first time bring the licensing regime for taxis and private hire vehicles within the legislative competence of the National Assembly for Wales.
The overview of the main proposals are:
the introduction of national standards for all taxis and private hire vehicles tougher penalties on touting, including impounding vehicles
bring pedi-cabs and novelty vehicles, including stretch limousines, within the scope of taxi and private hire regulation retain the ability of local licensing authorities to limit the number of taxis working in their area.
People are being asked to take part in the consultation, with various questions being asked such as if you think taxi drivers should keep ‘accurate records’ or not.
https://consultations.gov.wales/sites/default/files/consultation_doc_files/170612-taxi-consultation-en.pdf
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TELFORD
Detectives are questioning four people on suspicion of murder after a taxi driver died in a car crash
Two men and two women were arrested after the victim’s red Skoda Octavia hit a tree on Monday in Telford.
West Mercia Police are investigating reports that an occupant of the Skoda had earlier been involved in two confrontations with people in a silver Peugeot 307.
The fatal crash happened in Madeley Road, at around 10.30pm.
The first altercation is reported to have happened two miles from the fatal crash, close to a Tesco supermarket in the Madeley area.
Shortly afterwards another incident allegedly took place by a pedestrian crossing near Woodlands Primary School, Ironbridge Road, less than a mile from where the Skoda hit the tree.
Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Tonks said: “We are appealing for anyone who saw either of the altercations on Monday evening to contact police.”
Police also want to hear of any sightings of the Peugeot and the Skoda travelling along Park Avenue, Park Street, Ironbridge Road and then Madeley Road.
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