Local authorities can use existing by-laws to control cross border menace says union. GMB, the union for private hire drivers, is writing to council leaders urging them to use exiting powers to put the brakes on ‘Wild West’ taxi regulation. Local authorities can use current legislation to help end cross border menace blighting the industry. The Government deregulation bill has created a chaotic situation where some authorities are issuing licenses for taxis which then operate out of that jurisdiction.

In some cases this is taking place in areas where licenses have already been refused to those drivers. Recently in Southend, licenses were refused to some drivers who then went to TFL and obtained a license and are now operating in Southend – outside of TFL jurisdiction. Expert legal advice from GMB’s own law firm UnionLine says councils are able to create bylaws limiting those operating within councils to taxis registered in that county. A consistent law nationwide would require legislation, but councils can control the situation until new laws are in place.

Steve Garelick, GMB Professional Drivers Branch Secretary, said: “The current situation is out of control – it’s like the Wild West – with drivers operating with impunity, wherever they like, thanks to woefully supine local authorities. But councils have the power the help end this cross border menace. We are writing to council leaders urging them to stamp out this dangerous practice, which undermines the reputation and good will earned by our hard-working members.”