Mayor must ensure an independent and wide ranging review of the licensing of cab drivers - Pidgeon

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 11th Sep 2009

An independent and wide ranging review of the licensing of cab drivers is now necessary following the recent reports of an individual convicted of manslaughter applying to become a taxi driver and having already received a private hire driver's licence, says Caroline Pidgeon, the Liberal Democrat London Assembly Transport Spokesperson.

The London Assembly Member, who Chairs the London Assembly Transport Committee, has now written to Boris Johnson urging him to ensure that changes are made to the proposed review being undertaken by the Public Carriage Office (PCO).

Caroline Pidgeon commented:

"There is immense concern amongst Londoners that an individual previously convicted of manslaughter is not only applying to become a black cab driver but has already been granted a private hire driver's licence.

"While I welcome the Public Carriage Office's decision to carry out an independent review I believe this will inevitably be compromised unless it is seen to be genuinely independent. That must mean it is carried out by people of standing unconnected with the PCO.

"The review also needs to look at more than just this particular case and instead fundamentally review the existing rules which relate to the complex area of mental health."

ENDS

Caroline Pidgeon's letter to the Mayor is enclosed in the document section.