Councillors again call on government for “greater control” over the licensing of private hire driver

Councillors again call on the government for “greater control” over the licensing of private hire drivers within their authority. Telford & Wrekin councillors attending a Full Council meeting on Thursday 19 September will be asked to show support towards a motion asking the government to give local authorities “greater control” of the private hire operators operating within their area.

The motion has been tabled by Councillor Stephen Burrell and seconded by Councillor Tim Nelson. This call comes after a private hire driver was jailed for 19 months for the abduction and sexual assault of a female passenger in Telford. 28-year-old Raja Ahmed, forced his victim into another car after picking her up following a night out, and groped her breast. The Council urged the Government again in early August to change the law that allows drivers to operate in council areas that do not issue their licence. Councillor Stephen Burrell will propose in his motion: “This Council calls on Government to amend legislation licensing the operation of private hire vehicles to allow local authorities greater control of the private hire operators providing services within their area. “In addition, this Council commits to making the fullest use of its powers to ensure, that the drivers and operators of private hire vehicles in the Borough receive appropriate training, development and support and are committed to the very best standards of service and safeguarding for each and every passenger.” 

Image credit: Pixabay