Attention all Slough for-hire drivers
With effect from 28th January 2008, all Slough people who drive for hire, such as self-employed chauffeurs, must become licensed as a Private Hire driver along with their vehicles.
The new regulation was introduced following a review carried out by the Department for Transport (DFT) which highlighted a loop hole in the law that allowed individuals who drove for a company on a self-employed basis for longer than seven days, not to be licensed.
This has now been amended by section 53 of the Road Traffic Act 2006 which repeals section 75(1) (b) of the LGMP 1976.
An example of who should become licensed are those people who drive cars/mini vans for a company, ferrying staff to and from the office, but are only contracted to the company.
Any Slough drivers who think this change in the law may affect them can contact Slough Borough Council’s licensing office by either calling 01753 875664 or visiting MyCouncil customer services on the High Street to pick up an application pack.
Commissioner for public protection, John Edwards, said: “This new regulation is extremely important so that all people who drive members of the public around are fully licensed to do so.
“It is extremely important that all drivers ensure that both they and their vehicles are licensed before the 28th January 2008.”
Rachael Rumney, licensing officer for Slough Borough Council, added: “This change in the law ensures that all those who provide a means of travel, such as chauffeurs etc, are licensed and therefore checked to the same high standards that apply to licensed Private Hire (mini cabs) and Hackney Carriage Drivers and vehicles in Slough.”
Any individual who comes forward by 11th January 2008 will become licensed under transitional provisions by 28th January 2008. Thereafter, any individuals who did not come forward voluntarily may be liable for prosecution.
Slough Borough Council