Issue - meetings

The Chief Executive submitted a report updating Members in respect of the Council’s responsibilities regarding licensing hackney carriage and private hire drivers.  Members were being asked to consider amendments to the scope, style, delivery and cost of the knowledge test and application criteria.  The Senior Specialist Licensing Officer provided a summary of the report as detailed.  He drew Members’ attention to an amendment in paragraph 2.32 of the report submitted stating that the administration fee was £9.10 and not £13.65.

The Senior Specialist Licensing Officer explained that the training would be provided by Watford Borough Council but tailor-made to suit the needs of East Herts Council and was mandatory for all Dual Drivers and Private Hire Drivers Licences. 

Members considered the pass rate criteria proposed in relation to the tests for geographical knowledge and maths.  The Senior Specialist Licensing Officer explained the rationale behind the criteria and why this was being proposed.  In response to a query regarding other competencies, the Officer explained that competency in English was also evaluated as part of the process.

The Committee received the report.

RESOLVED – that (A) from 1 August 2016 all new driver applicants be subject to the new requirements;

(B)   from 1 January 2017 all renewing drivers be subject to the new requirements; and

(C)   delegated authority to make minor modifications to the scheme, in consultation with the Chairman of the Licensing Committee be given to Officers.