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In the wake of national concerns involving a number of high profile cases, Sandwell Council’s Cabinet has introduced a wide ranging review of taxi licensing across the borough. This involves examining the records of both taxi drivers and operators to ensure they meet rigorous new standards.
Nationally there have been some well publicised criminal prosecutions involving cases of child sexual exploitation, grooming and prostitution in areas such as Rotherham, Newcastle and Oldham which have involved the use of taxis and taxi drivers. The Cabinet has now introduced a much tougher set of guidance for dealing with those applying for a taxi licence in Sandwell.
Councillor Bob Piper, who Chairs the Licensing Committee said, “Obviously we need to take into consideration the fact that there are drivers approved under the Council’s previous guidance, who have long, exemplary records. However, by bringing them back before the committee it does give us the opportunity to examine their past criminal records and to question the drivers to satisfy ourselves that they are fit and proper individuals. “It is also important to stress that there are no concerns at all about the overwhelming number of existing taxi drivers in the borough.”
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