To note that Council, at its meeting on 4 January 2022, received and adopted the minutes of the meetings held on 27 October and 1 December 2021. The Chair will sign the minutes. [Copy minutes in Minute Book Vol 48(4)].
The Licensing Manger to submit the Hackney Carriage Table of Fares Review 2022. (Copy Report GD.04/22 herewith)
The Licensing Manager submitted report GD.04/22 which set out the current review of the Table of Fares for Hackney Carriages (Taxis) carried out in the district and proposed changes to the Tariff from 1 April 2022. In considering the report, Members raised the following questions and comments: - In relation to table 2.7 (benchmark charge for 2 mile journey) why was Carlisle ranked second among the Cumbrian districts when it had cheaper fuel prices? The Licensing Manager explained that before the current review Carlisle district had been ranked second and noted that it for some of the other district authorities it had been a significant amount of time since a review of fares had been undertake. Fuel costs were based on the national (RPI) and not the local prices. Another Member pointed out that Allerdale was listed as sixth in the table, but it's 2 mile journey fare was higher than two of the other districts. The Licensing Manager undertook to verify the matter and provide a written response to the Panel. - Could details of the consultation on the Fare Review be advertised on the Council's website as well as in the local press. The Licensing Manager agreed to arrange for the consultation to be advertised on the Council's website
- In respect of the calibration of taxi metres, was vehicle tyre pressure still a factor The Licensing Manager advised that she would liaise with manufacturer and provide the Panel with a written response. In response to further comments from the Member regarding the variability of fares for the same journey, the Manager stated that she would raise the matter with the company. RESOLVED - 1) That, subject to consultation, Members agreed the proposed changes to the Table of Fares for Hackney Carriages. 2) That the Licensing Manger arrange for details of the Hackney Carriage Fares Review 2022 to be advertised on the Council's website. 3) That the Licensing Manager provide written response to the Panel regarding: - results of the verification of table 2.7 - benchmark 2 mile journey; - the use of tyre pressures in the calibration of Hackney Carriage meters.
The Licensing Manager to submit a report on new rules for applicants for a taxi, private hire or scrap metal licence on or after 4 April 2022 (amendment to Policy Document). (Copy Report GD.03/22 herewith)
- NIL -
Conservative – Mrs Bowman (Chair), Collier, Mrs Mitchell, Meller, Morton, Nedved, Shepherd, Bainbridge (sub), Mrs Mallinson (sub), J Mallinson (sub) Labour – Miss Sherriff, Sunter, Dr Tickner, Miss Whalen (Vie Chair), Alcroft (sub), Birks (sub) Patrick (sub) Independent and Liberal Democrat - Bomford, Allison (sub)
Officers: Head of Legal and Democratic Services Licencing Manager