The Urgent Driver/Operator/Vehicle Sub Committee convened to review a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicle Driver's Licence. Following a hearing, the committee voted to revoke the driver's licence with immediate effect.

Review of Hackney Carriage & Private Hire Vehicle Driver's Licence - WD212

The committee considered a report regarding the review of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicle Driver's Licence WD212, and voted to revoke the licence with immediate effect. The revocation was made under Section 61(2B) of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976, citing concerns for public safety due to the driver's conduct.

The committee heard from applicant WD212, who was allowed to speak in support of his application and answer questions.

The committee's decision was based on several factors:

• Roadside drug test: Members noted that WD212 had failed a roadside drug test, testing positive for cannabis¹ and cocaine.
• Arrest: WD212 had been stopped by the police while driving and subsequently arrested.
• Public Safety: The committee felt that the failed roadside drug test was serious and impacted public safety.

The committee also considered a caution WD212 received in September 2000, but did not give it significant weight due to the length of time that had passed. They acknowledged that WD212 had notified the council of his arrest, as required by the conditions of his licence.

The committee considered the Statutory Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Standards, asking themselves whether they would allow a person for whom they care to travel alone in a vehicle driven by WD212 at any time of day or night. They concluded that they would not.

The minutes of the meeting record that:

Taking all the information into account, Members felt that it was reasonable and proportionate and that there was reasonable cause to revoke WD212's Licence and to do so with immediate effect in the interests of public safety.

Election of Chairman

Councillor James O'Keefe was elected Chairman for the meeting, proposed by Councillor Chris Batters and seconded by Councillor Robin Moorcroft.