ON STRIKE: Taxis and PHV drivers strike following anger at Leeds City Council licensing policy

Taxi and private hire drivers are set to strike for 24-hours today, following continued anger at a new Suitability and Convictions Policy put in place by Leeds City Council.

The proposed strike action, led by representatives of Leeds Private Hire Drivers Organisation (LPHDO) starts from 6am on Monday 17 January until 6am on Tuesday 18 January.

The strike follows a protest last week outside Leeds Civic Hall over the licensing policy that could see drivers banned from working if they reach NINE or more points for minor driving convictions.

Leeds City Council deputy leader and executive member for resources, Councillor Debra Coupar, said: “We have been made aware of the proposed strike action on Monday by the Leeds Private Hire Drivers Organisation (LPHDO). Our priority is to minimise the impact of this proposed action especially on vulnerable adults and children as much as we can, and to make sure everyone who may be affected is aware of the situation and any potential disruption, with solutions being identified where possible.

“We would ask the Leeds Private Hire Drivers Organisation (LPHDO) to reconsider their planned action, and continue their dialogue with us over the proposed accumulation of minor motoring convictions criterion of the suitability policy in order to achieve a positive outcome for all parties.”

According to Leeds City Council, councillors have met with trade representatives throughout the consultation to listen to their views and ensure they are kept informed of progress. The council say they are committed to consultation at all levels and will be prepared to listen and reply to any areas of concern raised by the trade in a constructive manner.