Scores of taxi drivers have been able to obtain licenses despite having convictions for violent offences, a charity has found. The Suzy Lamplugh Trust uncovered data that revealed drivers with convictions for violent crimes like assault, battery, and harassment have been granted licenses, even though authorities are aware of their criminal history.
The charity warned that women are put at risk when sharing rides with drivers who have a violent past and called for a change in the law to prevent such individuals from getting licenses. In a study involving 28 local authorities, researchers estimated that 90 licenses were issued to drivers with violent convictions, while an additional 68 were granted to drivers with traffic-related offenses like drink driving and reckless driving.
The tragic case of Sian O’Callaghan, who was murdered by a taxi driver in 2011, serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of riding with drivers with criminal backgrounds. Her mother and brother shared their heartbreaking experiences of loss and the devastating impact it had on their lives.
A survey conducted by YouGov and the Suzy Lamplugh Trust found that three in ten adults feel unsafe when using taxis, with many expressing concerns about the safety of drivers with a history of aggressive or abusive behavior. The trust called for urgent legislation to establish national standards for licensing taxi drivers and to improve background checks to ensure passenger safety.
Saskia Garner, a representative from the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, emphasized the importance of knowing the background of the drivers you entrust your safety to, highlighting the potential risks of getting into a vehicle with a stranger. The lack of consistent regulations across different licensing authorities poses a significant challenge to ensuring the safety of passengers.
Jim Button, president of the Institute of Licensing, acknowledged the variation in standards applied by licensing authorities and supported the need for consistent legislation in this area. He emphasized the importance of considering applicants’ history of concerning behavior when issuing licenses to ensure passenger safety.
In response to the concerns raised, a spokesperson for the Department for Transport reiterated the government’s commitment to keeping passengers safe and highlighted the rigorous background checks that drivers undergo in England. The department is exploring additional options to enhance safety measures around taxi licensing.
The findings of the Suzy Lamplugh Trust underscore the need for stricter regulations and standardized procedures for licensing taxi drivers to protect passengers from potential risks. The tragic stories of individuals like Sian O’Callaghan highlight the devastating consequences of inadequate background checks and oversight in the taxi industry. Implementing national standards and improving background checks are crucial steps towards ensuring the safety and security of passengers across the country.
