Drivers to fight taxi age rule (From Western Telegraph)

Drivers to fight taxi age rule

11:03am Thursday 28th February 2008

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Concerned that their livelihoods are in peril over a County Council decision to ban taxis over five years old, taximen in Milford Haven, Haverfordwest and Tenby have formed a Federation of Independent Taxi Drivers to challenge the move.

"We feel this was pushed through too quickly," said the self-elected chairman of the Federation, independent owner Tony Jones of Milford Haven.

"We are taking legal advice with the intention of challenging this decision through the Magistrates Court, because there is no question it could put some people out of business."

Mr Jones claimed the County Licensing committee made the decision without proper consultation at the request of three taxi operators who have relatively new cars.

"We already have to have our cars MOT'd three times a year, so there is no question that they are safe to drive. I haven't heard of any being taken off the road." said Mr Jones. "The age of the vehicle is not important so long as it is properly maintained and tested.

"We want this undemocratic decision vetoed before it puts the smaller operators out of business. It could make all the difference to an owner's livelihood if, after September 1st, he has to spend £4,000 instead of £1,000 to change his car."

He said the minority pushing for the change stood to enhance their own business at the expense of other operators, leading to a massive hike in taxi fares.

"We don't want to see people being charged £25 for a trip from Haverfordwest to Milford Haven instead of £15 because a few have got rid of the competition," he added.

A council spokesman said: "Consultations have been held with the taxi trade over the past 12 months over vehicle colour and age policy.

"A number of proprietors responded to the consultation and their views were considered when the Licensing Committee made its decision.

"It was felt that a number of safety measures - such as air bags and advanced braking systems - were incorporated in newer vehicles which were not available in older ones and that it was therefore prudent to set age limits on taxis."

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