Issue - meetings

Members were asked to consider and determine an application for a private hire driver licence, from applicant - 157225 who had relevant convictions, which did not meet current Transport Policy.

Applicant - 157225 attended the meeting and was given the opportunity to make representation.

Committee papers and reports had been provided to all relevant parties prior to the meeting. 

The report detailed the following:

. A copy of applicant – 157225’s application which contained a DVLA check code, showing one live DVLA endorsement for a speeding offence.

. A copy of a summary transcript of an interview with applicant – 157225 and Licensing Officers.

The Committee understood that the matter before them was to determine a private hire drivers’ licence application from applicant – 157225 who had four convictions for possession of controlled drugs. The Councils current Hackney Carriages and Private Hire Licensing Policy on drugs related offences states:- a licence would normally be refused if an applicant has more than one conviction for drugs related offences.

The Committee noted that had been a long time since applicant – 157225’s convictions in 2013 and that applicant – 157225 had not been in any trouble since moving to the North East over a decade ago. The Committee were assured by applicant – 157225’s positive attitude and professional demeanour when he appeared before. The Committee therefore determined that they were satisfied that applicant – 157225 was a fit and proper person to hold a licence and agreed to depart from its current policy.

Applicant – 157225 was reminded that licence holders who commit offences or receive complaints about their behaviour expect the Council to consider revoking their licence or refuse any future applications.

The Council had a duty to ensure so far as possible that those licensed to drive hackney carriage and private hire vehicles were suitable people to do so, that they are safe drivers with good driving records with adequate experience, sober, courteous, mentally and physically fit, honest and not people who would take advantage of their employment to abuse or assault passengers.

Applicant – 157225 was told that he must always drive in a courteous and professional manner and that Licence holders should endeavour to promote the image of the hackney carriage and private hire trade by:

a) complying with this Code of Conduct;

b) complying with all the conditions of their licence and the Council's Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy;

c) always behaving in a professional manner.

Before applicant – 157225’s licence was granted he was informed he must complete all necessary stages of the application requirements.

RESOLVED that applicant – 157225’s private hire drivers licence be granted for the reasons as detailed above.