Alex Cunningham MP shows support for Suzy Lamplugh Trust campaign for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing
The Stockton North MP attended an event on 30th January at the House of Commons to show support for a new campaign asking for national minimum standards for taxi and private hire licensing.
Hosted by Justin Tomlinson MP and personal safety charity Suzy Lamplugh Trust, the event launched a report which reveals that in some areas, taxi and private hire vehicle licences are being granted to drivers with criminal convictions including violent offences. The charity’s research indicates that passenger safety is being compromised because there are no national minimum standards to enforce sufficient safety checks for taxi and private hire vehicle licensing.
The report states that national minimum standards will help to ensure consistency and improve safety checks across all licensing authorities throughout England and Wales.
Speaking after the event, Alex said:
“Public safety is of the upmost importance and I wholeheartedly support this important campaign to improve safety. It is vital that all taxi and private hire vehicle drivers are held accountable to rigorous national licensing standards whether this is in Stockton North, London or any locality across the country.
“These regulations must prioritise passenger safety; everyone who uses a taxi or private hire vehicle should be confident that their driver has been appropriately vetted, and that they will reach their destination safely.”
ENDS
