Four years on from “Future Proof” and it seems only a few show proof of understanding our future

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With the audio all hooked up and ready to leave for work, I tuned into the live debate surrounding London’s taxi and private hire industry taking place at City Hall on Tuesday.

The discussion was led by the London Assembly’s Transport Committee with the aim to benchmark the two trades against its damning findings back in December 2014, where the committee found the capital’s regulator, Transport for London, infamously “woefully inadequate”.

In what was at times a heated and honest assessment from both sides of the industry, several key points where made, but the focus in this TaxiPoint article is on one for now; Congestion Charge exemption. Recently the London Assembly members chose to oppose the mayor’s plan to clean up London and improve traffic flow by making minicab drivers pay the congestion. The highly controversial move, was brought on by Conservative Gareth Bacon AM and may derail the mayor’s plan for private hire drivers to pay the £11.50 charge from April next year. Taxi drivers were to remain exempt. However, assembly members were convinced that the proposals put forward would have a devastating impact on smaller minicab firms while driving up costs for passengers and passed the motion against the plan 16-3. Only Lib Dem’s Caroline Pidgeon AM and the two Greens, Sian Berry AM and Caroline Russell AM, stood firm and opposed Bacon’s motion. During the CIty Hall grilling, Steve McNamara the General Secretary of the LTDA, said “Smart road pricing has to be the way forward across 24 hours” but taxis would need to be excempt. This drew quizzical glances from some on the committee who went on to show what can only be perceived as a lack of understanding for the situation taxi drivers face when it comes to the Congestion Charge. In fact, Caroline Russell AM said in a Tweet on the subject: “Smart road pricing has to be the way forward across 24 hours says Steve McNamara from the LTDA #AsemblyTransport #CabReview but turns out he thinks taxis would be excempt. Not sure that’s how road pricing *works*!” This response will infuriate cabbies who have been explaining the mechanics and legislative laws surrounding the job since the City Hall report was released nearly four years ago. Licensed taxi drivers should not pay the Congestion Charge as they have no choice whether they enter the zone or not. All drivers are compelled by legislation to take any member of public to their destination. They risk serious consequences if they refuse to take a fare. Either Caroline Russell is suggesting all cabbies become the only road user and form of public transport to be FORCED to pay the charge or she feels each driver should risk the licence that many man and woman studied over three years for to obtain. This raises the further question. If cabbies are not forced to pay the charge like all other road user, can they now take the longer route around the zone to the public’s destination? The cost to the customer using the licensed taxi, a form of public transport remember, will increase. Unless of course, cabbies are FORCED to take the shortest route through the zone and thus FORCED to pay the charge. Minicab and other private vehicles can make a choice. If an operator has 20% of their bookings in the levied zone it would not take a logistical genius to suggest not all of their fleet would be sent into the zone. Also with a predetermined price, taking a route outside the zone maybe more cost affective to the operator and customer. Minicabs are not forced into the Congestion Charge zone. They are sent there. Another important point worth raising too. Who would pay for the extra cost FORCED onto the cabbies? In London the meter is based on a Cost Index which relates to the running costs of a vehicle and the average living wage. The added cost of £11.50 per day will see the customer hit with a possible 5% increase to their journey price. As cabbies struggle to compete with rising costs forcing the meter higher how does increasing the fares at this point help both the industry and customer who expects the gold standard from what is still a public, not private, service. Four years on from “Future Proof” and it seems only a few show proof of understanding our future.

October 11, 2018 at 03:31AM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Perry Richardson THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Council considers banning Taxi drivers from wearing shorts because they deem them to be too sexual and provocative

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Bath and North East Somerset Council are looking to stop taxi drivers from wearing shorts, branding them too “provocative and sexually revealing” which could make passengers feel uncomfortable. Taxi drivers have already had a strict dress code enforced on them with a number of items of clothing banned, including ripped or holey clothes, items with suggestive or offensive words or graphics, sports kits and tracksuits.

Now the council will meet next week to considered whether or not they should also ban shorts, miniskirts and any clothing that could be deemed to be provocative or sexually revealing, the SomersetLive reported. Bath Spa cabbies have said they’ve never seen a taxi driver wearing sexually revealing clothes and say that banning shorts will just make drivers “uncomfortable” and “irate”. Drivers have appealed the consultations desire to include shorts in the ban especially during hot weather, but one of the consultation officers has said that the fitting of shorts can vary widely, saying “one person’s idea of an acceptable dress code can be very different from another person’s.” One taxi driver has branded the potential ban on shorts as “pathetic, petty and vindictive.” Council officers responded by saying no member of the public should be made to feel uncomfortable by a driver whose choice of shorts(or other clothing) may be inappropriate and make them feel uncomfortable. Bath and North East Somerset Council will meet next week to consider the new rules.

October 10, 2018 at 08:47PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Michael Murphy THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

British couple killed and taxi driver missing as cars swept away in flash flooding hits Spain

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Serious flooding across parts of Spain and the Balearic Islands have left eight people dead, including a British couple after the taxi that they were travelling in was washed away.

The unnamed couple were in the town of Sant LLorenc des Cardassar on the island of Majorca when they, along with their taxi driver, were caught out by the flash flooding.

It is unknown as to whether the couple were tourists or ex-pats. The two victims were found still ibside the taxi, rescuers are still searching for the missing taxi driver, along with several other people, and there are at least six people confirmed dead

With waters rising, people sought safety on the roofs of buildings, as vehicles caught in the torrent were swept out to sea.

On the Spanish mainland, the Costa del Sol, in the south has neen hit hard by the adverse weather, with widespread flooding and mudslides causing chaos, including causing major traffic problems on the main arterial road between Malaga and Marbella.

Parts of Spain are still on a red weather alert according to The Express

October 10, 2018 at 04:38PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Steve Kenton THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Taxi driver loses licence after threatening sickening violence on his own daughter

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A North Yorkshire taxi driver has had his licence revoked after it was revealed he threatened to chop his daughter’s legs up and boil her head in a pan. Concerns over the drivers conduct were raised, alerting Hambleton District Council’s licensing and appeals panel to order him before a hearing.

According to a report in the Northern Echo, the panel heard that a number of complaints had been made against this particular driver dating back to 2012. The driver in question was stripped of his licence back in October of 2012 after it was found he carried an excess number of passengers, acted inappropriately and had driven dangerously. A procedural technicality meant his licence was reinstated, but two years later he received a written warning following more complaints made against him about his driving and conduct. Now the licensing panel have decided to revoke his licence for a second time after they heard he was harassing his own daughter, which led to a police caution. The panel heard that the driver made repeated threats to his daughter and displayed some “bizarre” behaviour, including breaking her bed up and placing her clothes over the back of his vehicle. It was heard that he contacted his daughter 64 times in a single day, leaving “derogatory comments” including the threat to chop her legs up and boil her head. The panel concluded that the nature of the comments and threats were enough to make the decision to revoke his licence. They stated that any sanction less than revocation of his taxi licence would be insufficient in the interests of public safety.

October 10, 2018 at 12:27PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Michael Murphy THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

London Taxi PR announces awareness campaign in support of all disabled taxi passengers

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London Taxi PR is set to start a campaign to raise awareness of the current operating restrictions being imposed on the profession and all disabled passengers who wish to use a licenced London Taxi.

The group are heavily critical of the recent road traffic restrictions that have been imposed in the areas of Islington and Hackney.

The PR and marketing experts who promote the interests of the Licenced London Taxi profession, is calling on those councils and Government bodies applying the restrictions to provide clear clarification and definition for the profession, including a request for exemplification for all Licenced London Taxis who are either dropping off or picking-up disabled passengers within the restriction zones.

All London taxis are fully wheelchair accessible, and the recent imposition of road traffic restrictions in Islington and Hackney prevents the vast majority of the 23,500 licenced taxis being able to take disabled passengers into these areas to either drop off, or pick-up, as the restrictions only access to electric vehicles. Currently, there are just 500 ULEV taxis in operation in London, so not only is this felt to be a restrictive practice being imposed on the profession, but, more importantly, for all disabled passengers. Equally, it is thought that by allowing only electric taxi vehicles to access these areas that the restrictions are potentially breaching the Equality Act 2010. The recent exclusions are said to put some disabled people at a disadvantage, and the aim could have been achieved through less restrictive alternatives.

Since the recent road traffic restrictions have been imposed, an increasing number of London’s licenced taxis are already reporting that they are having to decline disabled customers who want to travel into the affected areas, informing them that they can only take them for part, and not the whole of their journey, as they would normally be able to do. Or, worse still, are not able to take them at all if they are travelling to and from an area within the restriction zones. These Ultra Low Emission Zones, some of which will not come into operation in London until 2019 has already LTPR feels, caused confusion within the profession due to some of the statutory obligations that apply and leaving drivers fearing they will be open to a breach of these regulations and open to possible litigation.

The PR group highlight that in London, section 35 of the London Hackney Carriage Act 1831 states that it is an offence: “Hackney carriages standing in any street shall be deemed to be plying for hire; and the driver thereof refusing to go with any person liable to a penalty.”

These regulations are considered to place a duty on drivers of licensed hackney carriage vehicles not to refuse a fare when standing on a rank unless they are hired or, have a “reasonable excuse”. The duty to carry people when standing for hire applies only to journeys undertaken in within the prescribed distance or in other words those that starts and ends within the relevant licensing authorities’ district.

As the distinct possibility for litigation from the industry the implementation of these new clean air zones, LTPR feels that the profession needs ‘A clear and unified clarification of these regulations, and the exemplification for those licenced taxis whose customers are disabled passengers’. Inclusion London supports over 70 deaf and disabled organisations working across every London borough. Through these organisations, its reach extends to over 70,000 Londoners.

Ellen Clifford, Campaigns and Policy Manager for Inclusion London, stated, “Inclusion London is concerned about any measures that act as a further barrier to travel for Disabled people. We urge local authorities to engage with their local Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisations to identify and halt policies that will have a detrimental impact on Disabled residents.”

LTDA General Secretary Steve McNamara added: “This unnecessary and unworkable restriction on our members’ ability to do the job they are uniquely trained to do is an outrage.

“The taxi trade is the only form of transport in London that is 100% wheelchair accessible and disability access friendly.

“We have no choice in the vehicle we buy and until recently we had no choice other than diesel. Since January we have had the option of a clean electric taxi and are buying all the factory can make, and there is now a waiting list into 2019 to get delivery.

“We have taken this draconian ban up at the highest level at Hackney and will be challenging any PCNs issued to members. We will also be part of an upcoming all trade lobby of councillors at Hackney town hall.”

October 10, 2018 at 10:40AM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Perry Richardson THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

TfL under fire over minicab licensing fees

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TfL have come under fire this week over changes to the minicab operator licensing fees.

The fees which range between £2,000 and £464,000 have been branded a catastrophe and not reasonable.

Under the previous charging regime minicab operators would only have to pay a maximum of just under £3,000 for an operators licence.

Steve Wright, chairman of the Licensed Private Hire Car Association, addressing the London Assembly transport committee meeting, said that such costs are a barrier to entry for anybody wishing to enter the Private Hire industry.

Criticism didn't stop there though as he also branded the English language test as not fit for purpose.

He also critocised TfL for not communicating with the private hire industry adequately and insisted that the situation needed improving

October 10, 2018 at 04:16AM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Steve Kenton THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

39 year old Taxi driver found dead in parked vehicle on A19 layby

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The body of a 39-year-old man was found in his taxi which was parked in the layby of the A19 near Seaham.

The police were called to the scene shortly after 7am following concerns for the welfare of the man seen inside.

The unnamed man from Newcastle was found dead inside. His family have been informed.

A spokesperson for Durham Constabulary said:

"There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death."

Sourced : Sunderland Echo.

October 09, 2018 at 07:47PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Michael Murphy THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

All vehicles, including taxis could be banned from half of City of London roads

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It has been revealed in The Evening Standard that the Corporation of London is set to slash roadspace in the square mile by 50%, as well as reducing the speed limit to 15 mph.

Draft proposals from the Corporation of London will see taxis, buses, vans and cars excluded from "pedestrian priority " zones.

As expected, cyclists will be allowed to enter the pedestrian zones, but expected to give priority over to foot-traffic.

A section of Threadneedle Street as well as the roads around Mansion House, Moorgate and Liverpool Street Station are included within the proposed pedestrianisation.

The proposals are part of a long-term transport project which will see the City of London transformed into a "world class" street scene showing London is " open for business," with some of the proposals being brought in as early as 2019.

The Corporation have also urged TfL to ditch the Congestion Charge, in favour of a "road-user charge," claiming that the former, which was introduced in 2003, under Ken lLivingstone's regime as mayor, is outdated and not fit for purpose.

The proposals also call for a two meter wide protected cycle lane, which will segregate busy routes. The Planning and Transportation Committee will make a decision on the proposals on October 30.

October 09, 2018 at 05:26PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Taxi representative tells City Hall the industry is "no longer economically viable"

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In a heated debate at City Hall today taxi representatives told officials the trade is "no longer economically viable" and that they are watching a “dying industry”.

London’s Greater London Authority Transport Committee listened to representatives from both the taxi and private hire industry on how best they can be supported and continue to thrive.

All representatives were scathing with their assessment on regulators Transport for London and London Mayor Sadiq Khan.

The four taxi representatives all highlighted the need for a clear definition to plying for hire and expressed their anger that this was continuing to be ignored. Traffic, loss of road space and the cost of the new electric taxi also featured highly on concerns.

Mick Walker from London Cab Drivers Club said if his own son asked him which one he should choose as a career, black cab driver or minicab driver he would recommend being a minicab because the industry is "no longer economically viable"

Mick Walker added "the Knowledge is in serious trouble".

According to the LCDC spokesman those doing the Knowledge in the last 6 months tally to half compared to those who used to do it in single month a decade ago.

Trevor Merralls from United Cabbies Group spoke about ride-hailing apps and how they're regulated. He said the public want certain things but TfL as regulator should be there to "protect the public from themselves."

October 09, 2018 at 05:04PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Perry Richardson THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Hundreds of Uber drivers turn up to protest in London, Birmingham and Nottingham

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Hundreds of drivers for ride-sharing giants Uber, have turned up to protest outside its Headquarters in central London today, as they push for better pay and workers rights. Drivers from the capital city have also been joined in today’s 24 hour strike by co-drivers in Birmingham and Nottingham.

Uber, who are no strangers to controversy has seen a number of demonstrations and court battles with its “partners” over recent months, with a mass log-out around the UK from delivery riders from its UberEats service. Yaseen Aslam, Uber driver and one of the lead claimants against the app for workers rights, posted on Twitter with a message that reads: “It’s getting BIGGER and BIGGER!! DO NOT CROSS THE PICKET LINE BY TURNING ON THE APP”

Another tweet from Ben Sellers reads: “Loud, colourful & noisy outside Uber HQ” The United Private Hire Drivers branch of the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain called a 24 hour strike of Uber drivers in London, Birmingham and Nottingham from 1pm on 9 October at Uber’s HQ in each of the cities. Drivers demands are as follow: An increase in fares to £2 per mile (currently £1.25). A 10% reduction in commissions paid by drivers to Uber (currently 25% for UberX) An end to unfair deactivations which are de facto dismissals.

October 09, 2018 at 03:55PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Michael Murphy THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

London City Police find “golf ball” sized rock of cocaine in private hire vehicle

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Police in London today found a “golf ball” sized rock of cocaine hidden in a private hire vehicle.

Officers from the City of London police force arrested both the driver and passenger travelling in the vehicle as part of its “Project Servator” which is “designed to to deter, detect and disrupt a wide range of criminal activity”.

Photos posted on social media by City of London Police show the size of seized cocaine. A dark blue Prius with Transport for London signage visible was seen being given the once over by a sniffer dog on Norton Folgate in the busy financial district of town.

The police source said on Twitter: “Having a second job these days is not unheard of. There is a serious problem if your second job involves couriering cocaine around London in your cab.

“Great find by PD Alfie. 1 golf ball sized rock seized. Driver and passenger arrested.”

October 09, 2018 at 01:40PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Perry Richardson THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Huge Sherbet marketing campaign displayed in London

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Sherbet London has launched a huge marketing campaign advertising their new black taxi app in key areas around the capital.

The new app recently launched to both drivers and customers offers a premium service with only TXE, Mercedes Vito and TX4 vehicles available to hire.

The advertisements can be seen on key billboards which includes the Euston underpass.

For the drivers the app features a modern and easy to navigate booking system, with a one touch interface and notification alerts so users can operate more than one application at a time. Drivers will have access to VIP, Corporate, pre-booked and Airport Transfers.

Commenting earlier this year on the app launch, CEO Asher Moses said, “This is another milestone in our evolution. We’ve invested a lot of time and expertise into this app. The app will drive the Sherbet London premium service with fixed-prices and quality Corporate and Airport Transfer work. Our drivers represent the Sherbet values - their vehicles will be pristine, air conditioned or heated, our drivers smartly dressed, and we’ll offer bottled water to customers on arrival. This is all part of the evolution of our service and brand. Our focus is how we use service excellence and technology to ensure a premium journey experience.”

October 09, 2018 at 10:34AM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Perry Richardson THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Police appeal after taxi marshals jaw broken

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Police were called around 1am on September 9 following reports a man had been assaulted in St James Street. Earlier in the morning, around 12.45am, a 61-year-old man had been marshalling taxis when he was approached by another man.

The man racially abused the victim before punching him in the face. He punched the 61-year-old man a second time, with the victim suffering a broken jaw.

The attacker is described as white, of slim build with short, red hair. He was wearing a white shirt, pink tie and black trousers. Following CCTV enquiries, police would like to speak to this man, pictured, in connection with the assault. PC Estelle James, of Blackburn Police, said: “Do you recognise this man? We want to identify him after a serious assault in Burnley.“The victim was racially abused before suffering a broken jaw in an unprovoked attack.“We are keen to find the person responsible and would urge anyone with information to come forward.” If you know the man pictured, please call police on 101 or email 3510@lancashire.pnn.police.uk quoting crime reference EF1813995. Alternatively independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111.

October 09, 2018 at 03:45AM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI Steve Kenton THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT