Agenda item

It was noted that the policy was a single source of information for users, and that Oldham had had a policy for a number of years which was reviewed every once in a while. It was noted that there were a number of amendments being proposed for the committee to consider.

Members agreed to the change to the policy in relation to the requirement that tinted windows needing to be fitted by the manufacturer

Members agreed to the change to the policy which would mandate the requirement to subscription updates.

Members agreed to the change of the policy which would keep a license suspended until a new DBS is produced.

Members discussed the change of policy around mid-year tests being carried out by DVSA approved MOT test stations. Members welcomed the decision, noting capacity for 2000 tests opening up. Members queried whether monitoring would still take place, and it was advised that there is constant review so any concerns would be flagged.

Councillor Wahid proposed and Councillor Bishop seconded the below amendment to the report:

‘New 2.6.1 All licensed hackney carriage and private hire vehicles (new and renewal vehicles) shall be permitted to undertake both their annual and mid-year vehicle tests at any DVSA-approved MOT testing station. The Council’s Moorhey Street Testing Station may continue to operate for voluntary compliance cheks, re-tests, and post-accident inspections.

New 2.6.3 For mid-year tests, the MOT certificate must be dated no more than 5 working days before the test is due and must be sent to the Licensing Service by the deadline shown on the vehicle’s paper license.

New: Officers shall monitor compliance with vehicle standards through the normal licensing regime, ensuring that vehicles tested externally continue to meet all safety, emissions, and presentation requirements applicable under the Council’s licensing policy.’

Legal advice from the Borough Solicitor was provided, noting the financial procedure rules. It was highlighted that if the amendment was carried it would have to go to Cabinet as a report due to the budgetary implications.

Licensing officers addressed the committee, noting the financial implications of the amendment which would lead to a significant increase to vehicle license fees. It was noted that there were valid points around MOTs for mid-year testing, which would free up capacity, reducing wait times for retests. It was highlighted that this would be a step back from the Greater Manchester position by allowing out of house testing.

Members noted concerns around the amendment, particularly around politicising the situation. It was noted that it was understood why the trade wanted this but two different issues around corruption was concerning. It was noted by officers that a thorough investigation had taken place and members could be assured that where complaints were raised, they would be investigated and the trade were assured that if they had concerns, they should report them.

Members noted a want to consider the amendment properly, and that the financial and legal implications needed to be considered. It was noted by the Chair that there was a procedure to follow.

Councillor Wahid used his right of reply to note the seriousness of the allegations, highlighting that the council could not ignore so many complaints of irregular practice. It was noted that he did try to present the amendment in advance of the meeting but was told that it wasn’t the process.

On a vote taken on the amendment, the amendment was lost.

On a vote taken on the change to the policy, the change was carried.

Members agreed to a change to the policy that noted that the wording regarding providing MOT certificates is required to be removed from the policy to reflect the decision not to issue MOT certificates at Moorhey Street testing station.

Members agreed to a change to the policy that updated the policy to require applicants to hold a full UK Driving License for at least 12 months.

Members agreed to a change to the policy to impose a width requirement for passengers seats, as set out in the report. Grandfather rights for all to remain on until vehicles reach the maximum age policy or cut off for emissions standards were also agreed.

RESOLVED: That all the changes to policy be agreed.