Taxi driver first to get penalty points

The taxi licensing authority has just adopted the penalty points system as a means of enforcing standards.

The driver appeared before the council's taxi and private hire licensing panel after refusing to carry the blind man and his dog.

Under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, all licensed taxis and private hire vehicles are required to take guide, hearing and other assistance dogs unless they have an exemption.

Currently there has only been one exemption issued.

The driver had failed to apply for an exemption certificate. He was given nine penalty points on his hackney carriage driver's record.

Should he reach the threshold of 12 points within the next 12 months he will have to appear before the panel again to persuade its members that he is a fit and proper person to continue to hold a licence.

The blind complainant gave evidence to the panel via a telephone link which enabled council members and driver to ask questions about the incident without the complainant attending.

This is the first time this method had been used at one of Rother's licensing meetings. The authority said this week that it had proved successful.

Points are awarded for infringement of the rules and conditions of licence that aim to ensure the hackney carriage and private hire trade provide a safe and efficient service to the public.

Should a driver reach 12 points in any 12 month period they are required to appear before the panel to justify their actions and give reasons as to why they should keep their licence.

Rother said this week should any member of the public have a complaint about the hackney carriage or private hire service, they should take note of the vehicle plate number and contact the council on 01424 787528.

Licensing committee chairman Cllr Christopher Starnes said: "The council is very pleased with the relationship it has with the licensed hackney carriage and private hire trade within the district.

"It is only by working together that we can provide a safe and responsive service for the public. However, I think that this case demonstrates, that if we receive a complaint we will investigate it thoroughly and take the appropriate action.

"It also emphasises the need for the hackney carriage and private hire trade to be aware of and comply fully with the rules and regulations set by the council.

"Failure to do so can really put their livelihood at risk."