Licensing Activity Update
To update members on the activities of the
licensing team its response to COVID-19
Minutes:
Consideration was given to a verbal report of the Trading Standards and Licensing Manager which sought to inform the Committee of the activity and key priorities and projects within the Council’s Licensing Functions.
Members were advised of the ongoing work undertaken by the licensing team during the Covid-19 pandemic. It was noted that the counter service had remained closed during the lockdown. Ongoing communication was being relayed via email and the service website. The plan would be to review future communication going forward.
Members were informed that the pass rate for vehicle tests was at 52% in June and the number of drivers and vehicles remained the same as pre Covid-19 and new applications for licenses were being approved under delegated powers by the Trading Standards and Licensing Manager. Training for drivers was provided virtually through Teams and deferred payments were given to the drivers along with face coverings and stickers for the vehicles.
Members referred to journeys being undertaken by drivers not wearing seatbelts. It was explained that it is legal for private hire drivers to drive without a belt whist passenger were in the vehicles. Members also felt that it should be made clear to passengers when a driver did not wear a mask. It was explained that operators were required to have drivers wear masks when they could.
Members thanked the work of the Licensing Team and asked how it could be ensured that vehicles would be cleaned after each journey. Members were informed that it was hard to enforce however the Authority hoped the majority were doing their bit to prevent the spread of the Covid-19. It was suggested by Members that letters be sent to the Taxi Associations to look after their vehicles however not all drivers were members of associations.
Members were informed of the progress on support available and that the authority were waiting on regulations being provided on what the money would be allowed to be spent on, once received the authority would get the information out to all affected.
RESOLVED that the verbal update be noted.