[Bluesmaster]

I have had some experience of the taxi trade, I could write several chapters on the subject but I won't.
There are a few things to remember....Private Hire and Public Hire are not the same.
Private hire taxis have to be pre booked through the taxi office, prices should be displayed in the vehicle, anyone who gets in a private hire taxi that has not been pre booked will probably find that you are uninsured if you need to make a claim against the driver if involved in any accident.
Public hire or Hackney carriages can be flagged down in the street and should display the prices, the meter should be used at all times unless you make an agreement about the price of the hire before you set of on your journey.
We used to have an enforcement officer for the Taxi trade in the borough but now the post has to my knowledge disappeared.
We do need an enforcement officer.....
I had a scary taxi ride a few months back, the driver never slowed down when he came to any of the junctions, I questioned him about this and his reply was " we just look for headlights" I woz gob smacked!
I don't use taxis any more, save yourself a fortune, walk or buy a pushbike.
As Janet said “why should we have to pay double bubble at Christmas time” when I was involved in the hackney trade we charged standard rate, we were not sat on the rank all night, we were very busy….we got some great tips and everyone was happy.

B.