The Committee considered a report which sought approval from the Committee toconsult on the Council’s existing ‘Statement of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Policy’ which would be in place for a three year period 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2023. The consultation feedback and the draft amended policy would be reported to the next meeting.

In response to questions Members were advised that as newer vehicles were becoming more environmentally friendly the engine size was not as crucial as it used to be and therefore each case would be treated on its own merit. The Senior Licensing Officer undertook to look at the references to EU regulations and passports. The Senior Solicitor advised that as legislation allowed for the suspension of a Hackney Carriage and Private Hire License its removal from the policy would not be necessary even though most case law limited the circumstances where suspension would be suitable.

The Chairman moved the recommendation within the report subject to the comments discussed above and it was

Resolved: The draft policy as set out as Appendix A be approved for public consultation.