Taxi driver loses appeal over licence revocation after inappropriate behaviour during 5-minute journey
- Perry Richardson
- Jul 9
- 1 min read
A taxi driver who challenged a decision to revoke his licence has lost his appeal at Oxford Magistrates’ Court.
Mohammed Shahzad, 46, had his taxi licence removed by Cherwell District Council with immediate effect on 4 July 2024. The action followed reports of inappropriate behaviour towards a vulnerable female passenger during a short five-minute journey.
The council said Mr Shahzad’s conduct breached licensing standards. The matter was brought before the court on Monday 7 July, where magistrates upheld the council’s decision. They found the driver’s behaviour to be unprofessional and in violation of his licensing conditions.
All licensed drivers in the area are required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and complete training in safeguarding and disability awareness before being granted a licence.
Mr Shahzad was also ordered to pay part of the council’s legal costs for the case.
Councillor Rob Parkinson, Portfolio Holder for Safer Communities, said: “Taxis are a key service for Cherwell residents, allowing them to get to work, the shops, or to attend vital appointments. We work hard to give residents the confidence to travel by taxi and this includes strictly upholding the conditions attached to drivers’ licences.
“This not only requires them to be fit and proper licence holders but comes with additional safeguarding training and responsibilities. This was a rare but serious breach of those driver responsibilities, and I am glad that we acted swiftly to remove Mr Shahzad’s licence to protect the public.
“I welcome the magistrate’s decision this week and I hope it gives passengers the reassurance that the licensing authority takes their safety and comfort very seriously.”
