Taxi Driver Online

Blackburn cabbie loses council appeal over licence ban

A Blackburn taxi driver with points on his driving record has lost his appeal against the loss of his taxi licence.

Blackburn with Darwen Council defended an appeal by licensed taxi driver Iqbal Master, of London Walk, who lost his licence due to speeding and traffic offences.

Master had appealed against the Council’s decision to revoke his taxi driver licence, known as a Dual Driver licence, on April 11.

Blackburn Magistrates' Court heard Master currently has 11 points on his driving licence which he had failed to notify the council about, in accordance with his licence conditions, and also had a number of previous complaints on his record.

The magistrates told him: "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: "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 a good idea to pre-book private hire vehicles."

Blackburn Magistrates' Court also awarded the council costs of £689.50 which Master will have to pay.

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