Published Wednesday 6 December 2023 at 14:59
A taxi driver with a history of speeding and points on his licence has lost his appeal against the loss of his taxi licence.
Last Monday, 27 November 2023, Blackburn with Darwen Council successfully defended an appeal by licensed taxi driver Mr Iqbal Master, of London Walk, Blackburn.
Mr Master had appealed against the Council’s decision to revoke his taxi driver licence, officially known as a Dual Driver licence, on 11 April 2023.
Blackburn Magistrates Court heard that Master, who currently has 11 points on his driving licence which he had failed to notify the Council about in accordance with his licence conditions, also had a number of previous complaints on his record.
In dismissing the appeal, the Magistrates told Mr Master:
You have a number of recent traffic offences and in particular five points in 2022 for speeding on the motorway. This offence occurred within the two-year period before your licence was reviewed and revoked by the Council. We find that the Council’s decision was in line with the Council’s policy.
We agree with the Council that they have a duty of care to protect the public and uphold public safety.
This means that Mr Master can no longer operate as a taxi driver in Blackburn with Darwen.
Councillor Jim Smith, Executive Member for Environment, commented:
The Council has a duty of care to protect local people who travel by taxi, something that we take very seriously.
This case proves that we will take a hard line with drivers who may put their passengers in danger.
At a time of year when people are using taxis more to travel to seasonal parties and family gatherings, I think this sends out a clear message that we do take action against unsafe drivers.
I would also remind anyone who uses taxis to be sure to check that the vehicle has a licence plate and that the driver has a badge on display before getting into a taxi. It’s also essential to pre-book private hire vehicles for insurance to be valid.
Blackburn Magistrates Court also awarded the Council costs of £689.50 which Mr Master will have to pay.