LTDA

The newspaper of the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association www.ltda.co.uk @TheLTDA BANK JUNCTION: p6 #435 22 January 2019 ACCESS BACK ON THE AGENDA

p5

p2 Have-a- go hero tackles robber p31 MEMBERS BACK City Hall’s LTDA POLICY Delicensing Scheme

Revamped Taxi Age Limit Cut Plan Get £10k for your 13-year-old“Unacceptabl cabe” TfL wipes £150m o
p3 cab values overnight 2 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA Cabbie Strikes Back Against Robbers NEWS IN BRIEF Plying for PEOPLE he would have got away otherwise.” hire PHV A brave taxi driver has struck It emerged that crook had back against the robbers earlier been involved in a driver fined making the lives of fellow robbery and has since appeared A private hire driver has been cabbies a misery by bringing in court on several charges. fined more than £1,000 after being one to justice. The west London area, caught illegally plying for hire in Richard Barrow, of Maida particularly around Lisson Reading. Khawaja Babar, 39, of Vale, sprang into action to help Grove, has become virtually Holberton Road in Reading – a a police officer being over- a no-go area for taxi drivers licensed minicab cab driver for powered by the thief, who had after a sharp rise in the number South Oxfordshire – was parked in been in the back of the 57-year- of robberies and distraction a bus stop outside a fast food shop old’s cab. thefts. in Friar Street, Reading, in the Both Mr Barrow and the In November, several taxi early hours of March 17, 2018. officer, a former strongman in drivers came under attack from When approached by council the Gladiators TV show, were a gang in Lisson Grove who officers he lied and said he had tipped off by a cyclist to the pushed large metal bins into just dropped off a customer. fact the cabbie’s passenger was the road in a bid to trap and The 39-year-old was found guilty a robber. rob them. Riot police on the at Reading Magistrates’ Court. The cabbie of 27 years scene were bombarded with He appeared at court on picked up the thief close to fireworks and forced to retreat. Monday, January 14, 2019, Westbourne Terrace and was Drivers and the LTDA have where he was ordered to pay driving along when a cyclist criticised the failure of the Met sums totalling £1,100 – £100 pulled up beside him and yelled to act on the crimewave, with for plying for hire, £253 for “you have a thief in the cab.” most drivers being told that providing false information Mr Barrow said: “The next thing there was a police car with their incidents will not be investigated. and £747 in legal costs. flashing lights behind me and I knew something wasn’t right – the Mr Barrow was praised by the police but took the opportunity cyclist must have tipped police off too. to raise the issue of Lisson Grove. Coee Discount “I pulled over and the officer tried to stop the robber from He said: “The police thanked me for my help, but I told them for Cabbies getting away, but he was quite strong and I could see he was I wasn’t happy with the way they are dealing with the gangs Taxi drivers can get 10% off getting the better of him. So, I jumped in managed to get the around there. I saw online that there was a woman taxi driver purchases at the Coffee House crook on the floor while the officer put him in handcuffs. robbed at Christmas and they couldn’t be bothered to follow it Six Zero Seven at 607 Holloway “There was a lot scuffling around on the floor, but the police up. They were quite apologetic, but I told them it wasn’t good Road, Archway. Parking is free managed to get the cuffs on while I held him down. I think enough.” after 2pm on Saturdays.

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The taxi age limit proposal is unacceptable and I have been making the trade’s case against it at City Hall CAMPAIGNING AGAINST STEVE MCNAMARA AN AGE LIMIT CUT TOP TRADE STORY Uber announced a 15p a mile increase then? Because on social media there was only outrage, shock and disbelief at this “blatant profiteering.” Uber attempted to defend ollowing Mayor Sadiq Khan’s shock announcement it as a means of helping its drivers fund the new much before Christmas of his plans for a “phased more expensive plug in hybrids that will be required, with F reduction” in the taxi age limit from 15 to 12 many Uber drivers still under the mistaken belief that their years, I have been knocking down the doors of various air current Prius will comply; it won’t! quality experts and policy managers at TfL, not to mention Interestingly Uber supports the removal of the the Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy, Shirley congestion charge exemption for PHVs, whilst their Rodrigues. My meeting with her can best be described as drivers scream and stage demos outside TfL. Is this because a frank exchange of views, especially on the fact that the they recognise the congestion and pollution their cars are announcement was made with absolutely no consultation causing? Or is it because its licence is not as secure as it with the trade and without any impact assessment being could be and it is frightened of challenging anything TfL carried out. I pointed out the flaws in TfL’s calculations on and the mayor do? the trade’s contribution to pollution, and handed over a rough draft of the LTDA’s own impact assessment, which Plying for Hire puts the trade’s loss at a criminal We are still waiting for the Government to publish £50 million plus. its long-awaited response to the taxi task and finish Back in 2014/15, when taxi age group report, which recommended legislation on cross limits were last on the agenda, border hiring, a definition of plying for hire and powers the LTDA hired scientists to for TfL to be able to cap PH numbers. In December, investigate the trade’s actual Taxi Age Limit Transport Select Committee Chair, Lilian Greenwood contribution to exhaust generated survey on current LTDACu policyt Plan to demonstrations and MP, wrote to Taxis Minister, Nusrat Ghani MP, to ask emissions, rather than TfL’s militant action. The first question asked was, “as the when the Government will respond to the report, and estimates. The resulting evidence, largest trade“ groupUnacce we want theptabl LTDA to bee” recognised whether it plans to bring forward primary legislation Sadiq Khan along with our cost impact as representing a professional, forward thinking and to implement its recommendations. Once again, the assessments and our members’ innovative industry.TfL wipes When £150mdealing with o
TfL, thep3 mayor’s minister said that a response would be issued “shortly” survey on vehicle purchase intentions, defeated the proposed office, nationalcab government/departments, values overnight national and local and acknowledged that Government had a “leadership age limit reduction. If we are to win this latest battle it politicians, local authorities and anyone else, our current role to play” in addressing “important issues in the will once again be down to the LTDA to do the research, policy in the first instance is to respond to consultations sector.” In written parliamentary questions, members source the experts and secure the evidence to support our in the trades interests, correspond with, meet and engage of our APPG continued to press the Government on arguments. It can be frustrating when others within the with (the above), gather supporting evidence, if necessary when its response will be published. Wes Streeting MP, trade, who have done nothing but whinge on social media, lobby and involve other relevant stakeholder and only as a Paul Blomfield MP and Jim Cunningham MP were then quote LTDA data and facts as if they were their own, very last resort to consider picket lines, demos etc, is this told by the taxis minister that a response would be in an effort to look as if they are actually part of the battle, policy current and correct?” It’s good to know that the vast published in “due course.” as opposed to the truth, which is that they are only spouting majority of members support this policy. We received This is unbelievably frustrating, a dozen other people hot air from the sidelines. over 3,000 responses with 95% of our members saying and I, including MPs and representatives from across Going forward, I have more meetings booked in with the policy is correct. The breakdown and rest of the survey the country, attended hours and hours of meetings several industry experts, politicians and advisors, before is on page 31. at the DfT. The report produced identified many of the consultation on the plans is launched. The detail of the the problems affecting our trade that urgently need consultation will determine what happens next and I’ll make Uber Fare Increase addressing. The Government needs to respond with sure we get as much input into this as possible as this moves Behind the hype, gloss and lies, the simple truth is most proposed legislation in time for it to go into the to the next stage. Uber customers only use them because they are cheap. Queen’s speech and before Parliament this year. u Many of these people, rather than admit this, pretend it’s Support for LTDA Policy the app’s simplicity or the convenience are the reasons for Steve McNamara is the We recently asked our members to complete an online using Uber. So where were all these people last week when LTDA’s General Secretary

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WHO ARE UTAG? UTAG is a unified collaboration between Drivers & Supplying stakeholders of the Taxi Trade.

United Trade Action Group Ltd ‘UTAG’ has been formed to manage the legal process and action against Westminster Magistrates Court, Transport for UNITE London and Uber. We are in the process of raising funds to pay for these legal challenges to save the Licensed Taxi. On 2nd November 2018, we were granted a judicial review by Hon Justice Walker, IN THE but there is much more to do.

WE NEED EACH AND EVERY DRIVER TO CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS THE LEGAL BATTLES. YOUR SUPPORT IS ESSENTIAL. FIGHT!

Please join the fight and donate here.It’s now or never. www.uTAG.LONDON UTAG is a reference to United Trade Action Group Ltd @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 22 January 2019 |||| TAXI 5 Delicensing Scheme Revamp Explained

TRADE TFL’S TAXI DELICENSING SCHEME average TX4 taxi emits over 70% less No. of payments Delicensing NOx after being converted to run on Taxi drivers can get £10,000 for a ELIGIBLE VEHICLES available payment LPG. Trials also show that drivers of 13-year-old cab as part of a shake-up Taxis younger than 13 years 250 £10,000 LPG-converted taxis can save around 250 £9,000 of Transport for London’s delicensing “ £200 a month in fuel costs. “ 250 £8,000 scheme. “ 250 £7,000 A limited number of LPG conversion The mayor has made grants of up to “ 250 £6,000 grants will be made available to drivers of £10,000 available for the first 250 drivers “ 250 £5,000 eligible Euro 5 taxis to support the shift to apply to decommission a taxi between “ 250 £4,000 of those vehicles with the worst NOx 250 £3,000 the age of five and 13 years. “ emissions to cleaner vehicles. “ 500 £2,000 There will then be a sliding scale of 13 and 14-year-old taxis 1,000 £1,000 If you wish to express interest in grant of £9,000 for the next 250 to apply applying for an LPG conversion grant, and so on (see the table, right). again, but your cab can still be sold for Apply for a please email TaxiDelicensing@tfl.gov. This grant is in addition to the existing use as a private vehicle, or even for use delicensing payment uk. This will enable staff to contact you £7,500 subsidies towards the cost a new outside London. Drivers are asked to ensure they have when the application process opens later taxi. The scheme is NOT dependent on carefully read and understood the terms this year. Expression of interest does not The LTDA is advising that “even if you buying a new cab: you can scrap yours and and conditions at tfl.gov.uk/corporate/ constitute an application. are unsure or are considering selling an rent, or buy a newer diesel! terms-and-conditions/taxi-delicensing, older cab in the near future it could be It is part of an £18m fund being used to before applying. LPG and Taxi Age Limits worth signing up as you are not obliged to support taxi drivers who want to delicense To apply for a delicensing grant, Under proposals to reduce the taxi age go through with the sale.” their Euro 3, 4 or 5 vehicles and included you will need your vehicle registration limit to 12 years by 2022, the age limit for Delicensing means you agree to take other initiatives to support the uptake of number, Vehicle Identification Number Euro 6, LPG and ZEC taxis is proposed to off the plate and the cab cannot be plated Zero Emission Capable (ZEC) taxis. (VIN) and vehicle licence number to remain at 15 years, according to TfL. complete the application, as well as an The regulator says “the proposal for email address. a 15-year maximum age limit for newly Apply for your taxi delicensing payment converted LPG taxis would enable fuel here tfl.gov.uk/info-for/taxis-and-private- savings, helping taxi owners to recoup the hire/apply-for-taxi-delicensing-payments conversion costs while also reducing their contribution to damaging NOx emissions Liquid Petroleum Gas in London. A new £2.5 million fund to help owners of “Any licensed taxis that have already eligible Euro 5 taxis to convert to Liquid been converted to LPG under the existing Petroleum Gas (LPG), a much cleaner fuel TfL scheme will not be impacted and system, has also been created. would retain their exemption to the age Independent testing shows that an limit requirement.”

All Change at LEVC BUSINESS rebranded the company and LEVC boss Chris launched our Gubbey has ground breaking announced he new product in the will stand down UK and exports following the success markets. I’m of the electric TXe. extremely proud of The CEO will what we’ve achieved Joerg Hofman Chris Gubbey hand the reins to and would like to Joerg Hofmann, who will take over on thank all my colleagues at LEVC, Emerald February 4, with full responsibility for Automotive and Geely for their support LEVC under the Geely New Energy and efforts over the past few years.” Commercial Vehicle (GCV) division. Commenting on the appointment, Hofman brings with him significant Chairman of LEVC, Carl-Peter Forster sales and marketing, product planning, said: “We would like to thank Chris production and international experience for his significant contribution and having worked for GM and luxury car dedicated leadership during a time of brand Audi for 17 years. transformation for the company. We’re Mr Gubbey said: “The past three years delighted to announce the appointment have been some of the most challenging of Joerg Hofmann who will bring not but rewarding of my career as we’ve only significant sales, product and The Professional Drivers’ Tax Specialist opened a brand-new production facility, operational experience but fresh energy created a new team and supply base, and perspective.” 6 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

City of London is to press on with further changes at Bank with one option including access for taxis BANK ACCESS BACK RICHARD MASSETT ON THE AGENDA

THE MASSETT FILE at least, are that this option offers limited scope for wholesale community improvements, which are often llowing taxis access to Bank junction is one favoured by authorities in this day and age. of the options to be considered by the City of Option two leans towards increasing the room available A London Corporation under its All Change Bank for cyclists and pedestrians, with some space “retained for project. Whilst it is not guaranteed, it is still good news some other vehicle movements (the type of vehicle is yet that the idea is not dead and buried and officials are to be established).” This option allows the City to make willing to consider the views of the taxi trade. the area greener, with trees, seating, shade, shelter and As you will no doubt be aware, on September 13 2018 activity areas, but to a lesser extent than option one. the Court of Common Council (the highest committee) It does also allow the opportunity for restricting two or voted to make the experimental traffic scheme three arms of the junction still further, again with some permanent, despite all the evidence showing that journey unspecified vehicle access. As things stand, this is the times for taxis and their passengers had been significantly authority’s favoured option. affected by the trial. Option one, is similar to option two, but would The ban was introduced under the Bank on Safety provide the greatest amount of pedestrian priority and branch of a larger scheme called All Change at Bank taxi drivers is number three, which is effectively the same full vehicle closure. This would also require the rerouting which is designed to make the area less crowded and as it is now, but with access for cabs. some London buses, with approval needed from TfL, and much more appealing to visit. This option offers the opportunity to refine what has would take several years to complete. The City’s aims are to… already been achieved, and investigate a revision of the Whilst the City weighs up all the options, I will n Reduce casualties by simplifying the junction vehicle types allowed, timings of operation and whether continue to make the trade’s case for full access to the n Reduce pedestrian crowding levels any further turning movements can be restricted. Bank and will report in these pages as the discussions n Improve air quality It provides the chance for officials to investigate develop. n Improve the perception of the area, as a place to a limited east/west route specifically for taxis. The spend time in rather than pass through. good thing about this option is that it is the simplest Richard Massett, LTDA Chairman, All Change is kicking back into action now, with three to achieve, some work, including widening footways, and Chairman of the options are on the table. The option of most interest to is already underway. The negatives, for the authority London Cab Ranks Committee

MASSETT'S CAMERA HOTSPOTS EXMOUTH MARKET Red zone BERKLEY STREET J/W PICCADILLY Yellow box cameras JOHN ISLIP STREET No right turn into Ponsonby Terrace FULHAM BROADWAY/BARCLAY ROAD Yellow box CAMDEN 20mph limit WATERLOO ROAD Zig-Zags SELFRIDGES Over ranking LUDGATE HILL Zig-Zags u HOTSPOT 1 CLAPHAM HIGH STREET Zig-Zags Lime Street, EC3 ISLINGTON 20mph limit RED ROUTES TfL is actively enforcing yellow box restrictions — no motor vehicles TOWER BRIDGE 20 mph speed limit – average speed cameras Mon-Fri, 8am-6pm LIMEHOUSE LINK 30mph speed limit u TERMINUS PLACE Bus only left turn. TfL to issue PCNs HOTSPOT 2 SMITHFIELD Do not park in loading boxes, they are enforced by camera Bin eld Road A13 Average speed cameras in operation —24hr pedestrian zone THE CITY 20mph limit @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 22 January 2019 |||| TAXI 7

NEWS IN BRIEF Minicabs Protest at C-Charge Plan Woman Raped by TRADE Uber Imposter Minicab drivers angry at plans to make A terrified young woman was them pay the congestion charge staged kidnapped and raped in an alleyway by a protest outside Transport for London’s a driver after mistaking his car for her Blackfriars office. Uber minicab. The drivers claim that Mayor Sadiq The woman, Khan’s plan to clean up London’s polluted aged in her 20s, air is a “tax on the poor” which will drive had been out them out of business. with friends in Petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles will the city’s most vulnerable workers. would provide the necessary incentive for Hackney, and have to pay the £11.50 levy on weekdays “These workers have had enough of operators to reduce the number of cars on ordered a car on from April 8. policies that ignore their concerns and are the road.” the Uber app. Uber backs the proposal, which its drivers going to fight back until they get the fair Alex Williams, TfL’s Director of City When a Toyota will pay, but unions say it could see fares deal they deserve.” Planning, said in a statement that “bold Auris arrived at Mohammed Awais rise by 10–20%, with some even trebling. In a statement, they said that TfL action” is required to tackle London’s public her location, she Minicab drivers say it could see their take research showed a disproportionate impact health crisis. got in the back but it was driven by an home pay slashed by 25%. But the mayor on poor workers. “More than 9,000 premature deaths are imposter, Mohammed Awais. hopes the charge will encourage firms and The union has instead suggested a cap on linked to air quality every year. The private The woman voiced her suspicion after drivers to operate more efficiently as 28% of the total number of minicab vehicle licences hire trade, along with all road users, the 28-year-old driver did not appear minicabs in the zone are empty. and rest spaces to reduce the amount of have a central role in reducing the filthy to know where he was supposed to be The protest was called by the time drivers spend on the road waiting for fumes circulating in going, a court heard. Independent Workers Union of Great passengers. our city,” he said. However, when she did, he locked Britain’s United Private Hire Drivers’ Critics say that it is well known that “The changes to the Congestion Charge the doors and sped up. branch. Uber drivers already use London as their will contribute to fewer vehicles driving The victim was driven to a “dimly- Branch chairman James Farrar said: own rank, simply parking up to wait for where pollution is most concentrated while lit” alleyway where she was raped, “If the mayor and TfL really want to passengers to hail them, effectively plying ensuring the cleanest minicabs or those that according to Scotland Yard. reduce congestion, they should immediately for hire. are wheelchair accessible continue to enter After the horrific attack, she was use their powers to enforce minimum The mayor has also written to the the zone without paying a charge. robbed of her possessions, including her wage legislation and other worker rights. Department for Transport to ask for the “The changes to the Congestion Charge phone, cash and a laptop, and ordered “Instead of introducing this and other power to cap minicabs licences, to no avail. and the introduction of the Ultra-Low to get out of the car. common-sense policies like rest stops for The union added the mayor should “use Emission Zone in April in central London Now, Awais, of East Ham, was drivers and a levy on operators, Sadiq his existing powers to enforce worker rights, will significantly benefit the health of all jailed for nine years and four months at Khan is choosing to target some of adding: “Minimum wage enforcement Londoners, including drivers.” Snaresbrook Crown Court. 8 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

The age limit cut proposal is an insult to a trade already going green as fast as possible A POUND OF FLESH PAUL BRENNAN FOR THE MAYOR

TOP RANK currently driving, is that any way to treat the to prevent this unnecessary attack on hard working world’s greatest taxi trade? cabbies, which has wiped millions of equity from So, what have we been told? Well, this announce- the value of taxis at a stroke. Let’s be clear they have bviously, the hot topic on everyone’s lips at ment pretty much sums it up: no real proof that we’re as dirty as they claim. The the moment is the scandalous announcement “In early 2019, we will also consult on proposals to 20% of pollution we’re blamed for, or the 40,000 O by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, of his reduce taxi emissions further, including a proposal of premature deaths figure is all complete and utter intention to consult on cutting the taxi age limit to phased reductions of the taxi age limit for the dirtiest tosh. They seem to be of the view that “if we say it just 12 years. What made it even worse was the fact vehicles to 12 years. The 15-year age limit would be often enough, it becomes true.” It is in effect a straw he decided that just before Christmas was the time to strictly mandated in 2019, with a man, a manufactured a problem, which never existed announce it, or if you are more cynically inclined, to proposed reduction in the age limit each year before, built up to show that they are taking action: bury the bad news. Then he also decided he wouldn’t until a 12-year age limit is reached. The age limit blame us, white vans and then use a sledge hammer even bother giving us any details about how or when for Euro 6, LPG and Zero-Emission Capable taxis is to crack the nut. Clearly, with all the outrage from it might be implemented but said we would have to proposed to remain at 15 years. The consul- the minicab trade about being forced to pay the wait for the consultation early in 2019 to see the tation will launch early next year.” C-Charge, TfL can’t be seen to be letting us off the finer details. So, if you’re currently driving a Euro 6 TX4 hook. But what they have failed to take in to account What is even considered as early in the year? Is that (approx. 16 plate) or Mercedes Vito (approx. 66 is that they are delivering a slap in the face to people January? Maybe February? Could it even be April? plate) you will still get 15 years along with the TXe who have already taken up the challenge and are How long will the consultation last two months? and cabs running on LPG. The latter of course could going green as fast as they can, with more than 1,000 Three months? Maybe four months? Then there’s have had a lifespan of up to 20 years, if a cab in its electric cabs on the roads already, despite there being the period after the consultation where we get the last year of its diesel life was converted to LPG, thus only one relatively expensive option. At the current collated information and summaries, before we giving an extra five years. For the rest of us they are rate of change we will be fully zero emission capable finally get the decision. That will mean we will be proposing to lower the age limit to 14 years in 2020, before TfL’s beloved London bus service, but yet they in limbo until the summer of 2019 at best, but 13 years in 2021 and finally 12 years in 2022. still want more blood. What an insult! u perhaps even as late as Christmas 2019. This isn’t the first time they’ve tried to lower our So, many of us will be spending a whole year not age limit. We defeated them last time and let me Paul Brennan, knowing what we should do with the cab we’re assure you the LTDA will be doing everything it can LTDA Executive @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 22 January 2019 |||| TAXI 9

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NEWS IN BRIEF Uber Fares Raised Uber fares in London have gone up 15 pence per mile as part of the company’s attemmpt to make drivers convert to electric cars. The minicab firm expects the scheme to raise more than £200m from the clean air fee in the coming years. Uber says the fee will add about 45p to the average London journey. It is hoped that a London driver Minicab Hits Family Home using the app for an average of 40 hours per week would be given TRADE when the car careered into the wall. of the vehicle. around £3,000 towards buying Ms Hassan said she was forced to move Ms Hassan, a personal trainer and an electric car in two years, the out on December 22 after the minicab hit carer, was first put up by relatives before company says. A mother and her two children were made her home shortly before 8pm. being moved to a “terrifying” housing Uber hopes to hand cash to homeless at Christmas after an out of The 36-year-old said: “I thought it was association hotel, and plagued by anti- 20,000 of its 45,000 drivers in control minicab smashed into her house. an earthquake. Suddenly this entire car social behaviour. London drivers to help them Suzan Hassan, 36, was washing the was in my kitchen. I was in total shock. She was so scared she removed her switch by 2021, increasing to dishes in the ground-floor kitchen of her Luckily the kids weren’t home. 11-year-old daughter, Yasemin, and slept every car by 2025. home in Bellingham south-east London “There were cracks going up the ceiling. in the family car, while her son Tyla, I was so scared that I jumped on to the six, stayed at his grandmother’s house in work surface and held up the kitchen Sidcup. The family have now been placed ceiling. in a three-bedroom property while a new “My neighbours rushed out and were permanent home is found for them. yelling ‘get out, get out’. I hurt my back A police spokeswoman said: “Police when I was thrown into the fridge.” were called at 7.55pm on Saturday Police breathalysed the driver at the December 22 to reports of a car in scene and found that the driver was collision with a building on Fordmill completely sober. Road. Officers and the London Fire It is believed he accidentally lost control Brigade attended. There were no injuries.” New CCTV at Rotherhithe ROADS would be used to extract smoke and other dangerous fumes in the event New cameras are being introduced of a fire. in the Rotherhithe Tunnel to increase “This showed that new restrictions safety and deter vehicles that don’t were vital to ensure road users could meet the safety restrictions from continue to use the tunnel safely, using the route. whilst TfL works on plans for the Vehicles that are more than two tunnel’s future. By not complying metres (six foot, six inches) wide or with restrictions at the tunnel, drivers two metres high, or goods vehicles are putting themselves and others at weighing more than two tonnes, are risk.” not safe to travel through the tunnel. Enforcement officers have been Enforcement will be carried out by present at both approaches to the the new cameras from early February tunnel since the new restrictions and people driving vehicles through were introduced to assist drivers the tunnel that do not comply with and prevent vehicles entering the the restrictions could be fined up to tunnel that do not comply. Officers £130. have turned away an average of 600 TfL says that “the tunnel, which vehicles a day since September. was built in 1908, was not designed Drivers whose vehicles do not meet to cope with modern levels of traffic. the restrictions are advised to use Safety is Transport for London’s nearby Tower Bridge or the Blackwall (TfL’s) top priority and in September Tunnel to cross the Thames. The 2018 it carried out detailed analysis of congestion charge does not apply to the tunnel’s ventilation system, which either crossing. @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 22 January 2019 |||| TAXI 11

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Basil Fawlty at the Corinthia Hotel doesn’t care if we can’t pick up his customers, should we avoid it? “DON’T MENTION THE LLOYD BALDWIN BLOCKED RANK” ON POINT or indeed fostering good working relationships. but it might be worth remembering their indifference to It’s disappointing to find that the Corinthia is one of the trade and if it’s raining, or you have somewhere else these, not least because when it opened a few years ago, you can be, then perhaps give them a swerve until Basil verybody knows that a good relationship of I remember the management taking out a double page gets his act together. any kind is built on mutual respect, trust and a in this very paper declaring their great love of the taxi E healthy ability to communicate. Unfortunately, trade etc. Over-ranking someone neglected to tell the Continental Basil Well, what rubbish! In recent times I have had Over-ranking is one of the big issues we hear about, Fawlty, in charge of rooms at the Corinithia Hotel, numerous complaints from drivers saying that the rank both from drivers and Transport for London. who has snootily snubbed my efforts at reasonable serving the hotel is often blocked by delivery drivers As many of you will know, there is a new two communication over the inability of taxi drivers to access and the like. I have politely taken this up with our place rank being trialled in Basil Street. By all the rank, and thus service their upmarket clientele. friend Basil, asking if they could do something about accounts the over-ranking there is out of control Our relationship with hotels is obviously very it. However, the response seems to be one of sticking and we are set to lose this obviously popular rank if important to the trade. We provide a gold standard two fingers up and saying we don’t care – charming the bad behaviour carries on. service for people who generally would rather not spend indeed. Not the response you would expect to get a Things got so heated recently that an LTDA their time circling London for hours with a confused hotel that professes to want a good relationship with the marshal had to step in and break up a row between Uber driver. Admittedly, like all relationships, ours is a trade, or who has studied hospitality. I bet they don’t two drivers, which was about to get violent. bit rocky at times. Some drivers let the side down while communicate with their customers like that. Complaints about over-ranking emanate from using hotel services and there are the obvious complaints In fact, the response was simply “please be advised Hans Place (both sides) and Walton Place. about dodgy doorman and backhanders at some less that the hotel has no responsibility to police the taxi Residents are fed up with it and have been than scrupulous businesses around the city. rank.” Well, that maybe the case but do you want taxis filming cabs and sending the videos to Kensington Part of my job is try to maintain a cordial relationship, to service your hotel and its customers or not? It is your and Chelsea Council, which is in contact with TfL. addressing the issues as they arise by phoning, meeting responsibility if you want taxi drivers to serve the hotel. Keep calm and if the rank is full, move along. or emailing the hotels in the hope of getting them to They have doormen and it wouldn’t take a couple of It is obviously proving popular and we want to listen to our complaints and tackle them and in turn, seconds just to tell someone to clear off. keep it. u take up any hotel issues with drivers. I only raise this relationship breakdown out of Unfortunately, it seems some hotels are be frustration really, I’m not suggesting that we head for Lloyd Baldwin is an LTDA run by people who just don’t care about the trade the divorce courts just yet, or actively boycott the hotel, Executive Support Officer

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INTERNATIONAL attorney. He told the judge at the about 5.30pm local time. A woman Kalamazoo County court that he had was shot multiple times – reportedly An Uber driver has admitted made the decision of his own free will, in front of her children – and was murdering six people at random in a adding that he had “wanted this for taken to hospital in a serious shooting spree in the US. quite a while”. condition; Jason Dalton, 48, initially blamed Dalton had earlier reportedly told n At about 10pm local time, a father the app for controlling his “mind and police that he was made a “puppet” by and son were shot and killed and a body” when he went on the rampage in the Uber application, which directed third person was wounded at the car Michigan. him to shoot people at random over a dealership; The 48-year-old slayed four people five-hour period in February 2016. n At about 10.15pm the third shooting at a restaurant, and two at a car None of the victims were Uber took place in the car park of the dealership, in the shootings in the customers but Dalton continued to Cracker Barrel restaurant. Mary Lou city of Kalamazoo. pick up passengers during the shooting Nye, 62, of Baroda, Michigan, was The charges consisted of six counts spree. killed along with Dorothy Brown, of murder, two counts of attempted The shootings took place on a 74; Barbara Hawthorne, 68, and murder and eight charges relating Saturday evening at three locations – Mary Jo Nye, 60, all of Battle Creek, Jason Dalton to firearms offences. He now faces a outside a Cracker Barrel restaurant, Michigan. A girl, 14, was gravely mandatory life sentence without parole. a Kia car dealership and an apartment wounded. the company. Mr Dalton had undergone Dalton, who submitted his plea block. Dalton was arrested that evening background checks but passed because while jury selection was taking place, n The first shooting took place outside and also Uber confirmed that Mr he had no criminal record, the minicab did so despite the objections of his a Kalamazoo residential building at Dalton was a driver registered with firm said. Diesel Slump Forces Jaguar New Taxi Charity President Appointed CHARITY Catterick in Yorkshire and trained as a wireless operator. He Job Cuts volunteered for airborne forces, transferred and trained as a A parachute squadron veteran and former cabbie has been parachutist and served the remainder of his service with 16th INTERNATIONAL appointed as the new president of the Taxi Charity. Independent Parachute Brigade Signals Squadron until 1956. Eddie Hillery has been involved with the Taxi Charity for After a few years in different driving roles Eddie signed up for Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has said that it Military Veterans since 2008, volunteering to make bucket the Knowledge in 1965 and became a qualified taxi driver in is axing 4,500 jobs, with the substantial collections at stations before becoming a committee 1966. He spent 42 years as a London taxi driver and majority coming from its 40,000 strong member in 2013. was a founder member of the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ UK workforce. Gary Belsey, Chairman of the Taxi Charity, said Association (LTDA). The company has admitted facing “As a long serving charity volunteer, veteran and The Taxi Charity arranges international trips several challenges, including a slump an ex-cab driver Eddie was the obvious choice for to Holland, Belgium and France, UK day trips in demand for president. We are delighted that he is in post as we to concerts or museums, transport to attend diesel cars and a begin 2019 and the important 75th anniversary year fundraising events, as well as special days out to sales slowdown in of the D-Day Landings.” catch up with friends and comrades. China. In 1954, aged 18, Eddie was called up under the To donate, volunteer or just to find out more visit The firm has National Service Act. He joined the Royal Signals at Eddie Hillery the website http://www.taxicharity.org also complained about uncertainty caused by Brexit, which it says has Ralf Speth deterred many people from buying new cars for the time being. Most will be in office roles as the company wants to simplify its management structure. The cuts come on top of last year’s 1,500 job losses. JLR, which is owned by Indian conglomerate Tata, made a £90m pre-tax loss in the three months to September 30, a major reversal from the £385m profit of the previous year. “We are taking decisive action to help deliver long-term growth, in the face of multiple geopolitical and regulatory disruptions as well as technology challenges facing the automotive industry,” said JLR’s chief executive, Ralf Speth. JLR, the UK’s biggest vehicle maker, says it plans to make further investment in electrification. Electric drive units will be produced at Wolverhampton and a new battery assembly centre, to be established at Hams Hall, Birmingham. 16 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

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LTDA Application Form Oct18.indd 1 09/10/2018 10:23 @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 22 January 2019 |||| TAXI 17

appreciated – but obviously cabbies still aren’t LETTERS responding. I would suggest that union reps take the time, each time a new TfL proposal is emailed out, to liaise with cabbies at all major airport feeder parks DON’T IGNORE STAR LETTER and other busy ranks to ensure that every cabbie CONSULTATIONS ranked up competes the consultation then and there, whilst they are twiddling their thumbs. ycle superhighway route 4 from Tower Bridge to Greenwich is the latest Heathrow is a perfect example. I don’t know the numbers but there must be scheme to get the go ahead following a two-month consultation period last about 500 cabs in the feeder parks when its full. If, during a week-long period C year. TfL received 3,265 direct responses to the consultation, of which 83% when a new consultation is emailed out by TfL, a union rep knocked on every cab supported or strongly supported the proposals. door once a day for that week and talked with the driver they could surely get a Considering there are 24,000 cabbies representing our trade, it goes to show, couple of thousand cabbies to complete the consultation. Some drivers may need a once again, that our colleagues are not responding to the TfL consultations. For little bit of help filling it in on their smart phone – others just need a kick up the the life of me I cannot understand why. We must improve this going forward. backside to get it done. Those numbers would swing consultations in our favour I read the emails that the LTDA sends out regularly, which literally spoon and that’s just Heathrow alone! u feed cabbies on how to respond to TfL – these are great by the way and much Jamie Hamblett

a passenger with their bag. I didn’t know I’d TOP SERVICE! dropped it until a fair time later when I received LOCKERBIE et again, advice from Anthony Street, a call from Peter. He found my LTDA card in a stalwart of our trade, has done my wallet and was able to contact someone at CORRECTION Y it again. I have a hereditary blood the office who gave him my number which was s a taxi driver and also a security condition and need an annual medical for my lucky. However, he had already been on Twitter trainer at Heathrow airport, I read licence renewal. This is always done by my (as I found out later) to alert me or anyone A with great interest the article about haematologist consultant, as they knew more who knew me to my loss. Despite finding my the Lockerbie Bombing on the Pan Am Clipper than my GP. Everything was great until this Spurs season ticket and him being a Gooner he of Maid the Seas in TAXI 433. The article year when, despite the previous years, more still stopped work so I could collect my wallet. Abdelbaset was very interesting as we use the Lockerbie info was needed. How do you get higher than Thank you very much Peter for your patience al-Megrahi disaster references in training new staff. I was your consultant? Anthony suggested making honesty and commitment. disappointed though that part of the article an appointment with my GP, but as it was well Simon Thompson seems to be incorrect. The reference to a broken past the 28 days allowed by TfL, the earliest Trial lock at Heathrow implies that Heathrow airport appointment was nearly six weeks. Anthony evidence baggage had something to do with the bag. In negotiated on my behalf with the Occupational DON’T BE fact, the bag containing the device was placed Health Department at TfL and they allowed showed onto an Air Malta flight to Frankfurt where the time. I couldn’t see how the GP could do INSULTING ONLINE the bag containing the device was transferred better. Well, I saw my doctor, who filled out ’m in my fifth year as a Knowledge student that on to the Pan Am 103 flight to New York via the same information. He added that in his and apart from the odd naysayer, I find most German London. The aircraft made the scheduled stop unequivocal opinion I was always fit and safe to I taxi drivers positive and professional. police at Heathrow with the device already on board, drive a taxi. I forwarded this to Anthony and he Alas, give them the cover of a digital cloak from Frankfurt. Heathrow was not involved at contacted TfL and hey presto, after six months and a Twitter account and many turn into were all with the baggage. Trial evidence showed that of stress and worry I received the email: I passed rampant bitter mad men. It normally goes German police were tailing Al Megrahi prior to my medical. Membership of the LTDA is a something like this: tailing the tragedy and at the start of the investigation multilevel insurance. You hope you never need @kellybrown (FAKE NAME) Al tried to pass blame to Heathrow for the device it, but wow, if you do! it’s worth every penny. “Last night I was charged £60 pounds for an being placed on the aircraft. It has been proven Plus, most of it can be offset against income tax. Uber journey, which I was quoted £17 pounds for. Megrahi and recorded that Heathrow was not to blame Forget all these snivelling, jealous posters dotted Very unhappy about this @Ubersupport” for the breach of security at Frankfurt. I feel about, knocking the board of the LTDA. I You will then get a slew of cabbies insulting prior the article, although very well written, implies don’t care what these people say, when I needed said person with sarcastic comments and in to the Heathrow is to blame which is untrue. All them, they were there. My career as a cab driver some instances, downright rudeness. The tweets evidence shows Heathrow as an innocent party is coming to its close in a few more years. I have ensure this person will NEVER use black cabs. tragedy in a very tragic incident. needed their help a few times since they began. London taxi drivers are the best in the Tim Veck The membership price has been repaid, many world; fact. So please act like it, not just on the times over. Just join. road, but on the information super highway as Fred the Leg well. THANKS FOR Jay Stewart YOUR KINDNESS THE FILTH y husband and I went to London on November 15. We had booked a AND THE FURY M hotel called the Bolton Hotel, South he conditions at Paddington Station Kensington. We decided to take a black cab have been disgusting. Taxi drivers are from Covent Garden and had a lovely driver T urinating on the walls and floor making who told us lots of history on way. The traffic it unbearable to rank inside Paddington station. was very busy and it took ages to get there, These people should be ashamed of themselves. but he made the journey pleasant. After we Adil Charkaoui got to our room I realised I’d left my daughters EASY RUN HARD RUN Christmas present in cab, a bottle of £84 Tom u Gatwick Express u American School to Ford perfume. I felt like crying. We went out NORTH LONDON to Willesden Junction for a walk round and got back after 8pm to Heygate Street Station find the driver had driven all way back and left FOOTY LOVE IN it at reception for us. I went to Covent Garden would like to thank a cab driver called the next day to see if I could recognise him, but Peter from Stoke Newington for returning Do you have a gripe or praise? Contact us at unfortunately, I didn’t. So, this is a big thank I my wallet to me on New Year’s Eve. At you from me for your kindness and honesty. Paddington I dropped my wallet while helping 0207 121 0523 or email [email protected] Lynette Cummings 18 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

2018 was a strange year: ghting crime was less important for the police than selling branded clobber EXIT THROUGH CHRIS ACKRILL THE MET GIFT SHOP

ON THE ROAD mopeds. It was reported that the police were reversing their earlier strategy of giving up the chase, and would now ram s we journey deep into the land the mopeds with their cars. of kippers, we wonder what this The Metropolitan Police suggested that A year will bring. We might also the days of passive resistance were over. ponder what is going on in other people’s The police talked about a walk on by professions. I was particularly interested culture after an attack on a police officer in the mad things that were going on was filmed and shown on social media. in the police service towards the end of This was in contrast to the Lisson Grove 2018. For a fair while, under-reaction had crime epidemic, where they wouldn’t been the order of the day, with “lesser” respond adequately when presented with crimes not being adequately investigated. evidence, and just walked off when the Then there was a controversial counter perpetrators turned on them. reaction against moped mugging gangs. They used to tell us not to get involved. There was also a comical move into You might get hurt, or become subject to branded merchandising by the Met. prosecution should you take the law into As most people in the London taxi Rossmore Road and attacked passing disposal eyewitness accounts, photographs your own hands; even if you’re defending trade are aware, there had been a spate taxis by throwing traffic cones. The police and CCTV footage. your own property or protecting yourself of robberies of drivers in and around apparently showed up but withdrew when On Saturday, November 17, I came and others. Taxi drivers who came under the Lisson Grove area. I’ve spoken to they came under fire from bricks and home from work early because I couldn’t attack after the bonfire night incident drivers who fell victim years ago, but stones. That was pretty much the end of get around town. Protestors calling were reluctant to report attacks as they’d activity intensified in the autumn of the police’s involvement, though attacks themselves “Extinction Rebellion” lost confidence in the police. Were the 2018. Drivers reported attacks to the on taxis continued and spread to new (whose aims were vague) blockaded five police still fobbing victims of crime off police but the crimes weren’t followed areas. In most cases, the police refused Central London bridges. The police shut with excuses, or were they now working up. On bonfire night, gangs barricaded to investigate, despite having at their more streets off and let them get on against the walk on by culture? Which with it. The demonstrations continued version of the police service would we be into the following week and London’s dealing with as we went into 2019? roads were in chaos. There were 84 The Met had other distractions anyway. IN ASSOCIATION WITH arrests on the Saturday, but none on the They’d recently launched a range of following Wednesday when the demo branded clothing, toys and souvenirs. SIMRO LONDON had been stepped up to ruin many Actually I’d quite fancy one of those people’s midweek routine. The police checked baseball caps that the cops with TAXI RENTALS often talk about a lack of resources. This guns wear. I could buy a toy gun and is undoubtedly hampering the police spend many happy hours running around to some extent, but they still had the the house shouting “Stop! armed police!” OVERHAULS, SERVICING, BODYWORK resources to put cones out and direct at the wife and cat. AND NON FAULT SPECIALIST traffic around the affected areas. Call me Maybe all those police stations that reactionary, but I would like to have seen have closed in the past few years will British KITEMARK Approved Body Shop Boris’s obsolete water cannon tested on re-open in order to handle the retail Extinction Rebellion – or phantom drones side? Existing stations could extend their – before he sold it (at a huge loss). hours – perhaps have a late shopping day TX2s & TX4s The police are only as good as their on Thursdays? We could hand it lost funding, and they have undoubtedly property again, like we used to. The term suffered from a lack of money. They “cop shop” will carry more meaning. We AVAILABLE TO should be responding to reports of can report crimes in the traditional way, robbery though, particularly when then browse the merchandise as we exit evidence is handed to them on a plate. I’d through the gift shop. RENT NOW! urge anyone who’s been victim of a crime As for the ramming of moped gangs, to report it. And to the police; reporting I’m not sure I believe the hype. It things on Twitter doesn’t count! could just be an opportunity to stop A little later in November, a shift in motorcyclists in a desperate attempt attitude was reported concerning the to sell them an “I’ve Met the Met” epidemic of robberies by teenagers riding baseball cap.

07534 125 454 CALL Call me reactionary, but I would NOW like to have seen Boris’s obsolete 0207 372 2222 water cannon tested on Extinction 52 Iverson Road London NW6 2QX Rebellion – or phantom drones – before he sold it... @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 22 January 2019 |||| TAXI 19

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Concluding the gruesome tale about a sadistic barber turned murderous south London publican THE BOROUGH ROBERT LORDAN POISONER’S END

CRUEL LONDON case some years previously. Shortly after, a colleague suggested to Godley, “you’ve caught Jack the Ripper at last.” fter murdering his lover This theory was widely discussed in Mary Spink with by secretly newspapers at the time and to this day A administering poison in there are still those who believe there’s ever large doses, Polish barber turned a good possibility that Chapman was publican, George Chapman (real name indeed responsible for the notorious Severin Klosowski) set his sights on spree of 1888; the main reasons his next victim: his newly employed being that he lived and worked in barmaid, Bessie Taylor. Whitechapel at the time, had some Just like Mary, Bessie agreed to enter medical knowledge and, as seen in into a bogus marriage with Chapman each of his relationships, displayed a only to quickly discover what a monster psychopathic attitude towards women. he truly was; a vile bully who revelled in Following Chapman’s arrest, the verbal, physical and psychological abuse. bodies of Mary Spink and Bessie Taylor At one point he even threatened her were exhumed and found to contain with a revolver. George Chapman: Executed for the murders of three women large traces of metallic elements within As with Mary, Chapman began them. Chapman’s modus operandi was slipping tiny amounts of toxin into Chapman to select his third victim. were discovered in Maud’s organs. confirmed, leading the press to dub him Bessie’s food. When she began to display This time it was 18 year old Maud Chapman – who, rather unsettlingly, the “Borough Poisoner.” symptoms similar to those suffered by Marsh, a barmaid who he’d employed had been spotted lurking outside the George Chapman was tried at the his former partner, Chapman arranged shortly before attempting to torch his mortuary whilst the post-mortem was Old Bailey during March 1903. It took a posting at a new pub – The Grapes pub. As per usual Chapman treated his being conducted – was arrested by the jury just 11 minutes to find him in Bishop’s Stortford – where he could partner appallingly. Terrified, Maud Inspector George Godley, an officer guilty and he was executed the following avoid suspicion. After a time the pair confided in her sister with the ominous who’d served on the Jack the Ripper month at Wandsworth prison. u moved back to London where they took words, “you don’t know what he is.” on The Monument Tavern; an inn which In January 1902 Chapman and once stood on Borough’s Union Street. Maud moved to The Crown on Borough At The Monument Tavern, Bessie’s High Street. Although no longer a pub, health continued to deteriorate. As The Crown’s facade remains and can she lay ill, her friend Elizabeth Painter still be seen today on the corner with would frequently visit and, on more Angel Place. than one occasion, Chapman played a As before, Chapman began sprinkling cruel prank by announcing her friend tiny amounts of poison into his lover’s had died. Bessie finally passed away food. Apparently emboldened, he on Valentine’s Day 1901 and when invited Maud’s parents to move in Elizabeth – who did not yet know when their daughter began displaying the sad news – popped by as usual, the now familiar symptoms of pain and Chapman sickly quipped that her nausea. The Marsh family insisted Maud friend was fine. be taken to Guy’s Hospital where she In October 1901 Chapman decided quickly improved, but tellingly fell ill to have a crack at insurance fraud by again once back at The Crown. setting fire to The Monument Tavern. Suspicions were raised and when Bizarrely though, he removed all of the Maud’s mother announced she was furniture beforehand and stashed other going to contact an independent doctor, valuables in the cloakroom at London Chapman panicked and administered Bridge station meaning the fire brigade a huge dose of poison to Maud. She were met with an empty building consequently died the following day when they burst in. Unsurprisingly the – October 22, 1902. This time the insurers refused to pay out, although the doctor suspected foul play and refused police displayed no interest in pursuing to issue a death certificate without what was clearly a case of bungled arson. further examination. His suspicions were Depressingly it did not take long for confirmed when large amounts of arsenic

Chapman decided to have a crack at insurance fraud by setting „re to The Monument Tavern. Bizarrely though, he removed all of the furniture beforehand and stashed other valuables... 22 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

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hat better way to kick off the New Year than by meeting one of our diary Emerson said: “Fantastic. This will come in very handy. I never thought I would win spotters and being handed a £150 gift card completely free. Diary Watch.” A short while later our spotters managed to catch up with Ahmed Haashi, Our spotters love nothing more than hopping around London looking who was pleased as punch when he was handed a £150 gift card simply for having his diary for unsuspecting LTDA members to hand goodies to. on display. Ahmed said: “That’s great, thanks a lot. That’s made my day. ” WThis week they caught up with Emerson Ferreira, who was delighted when our spotters Each year we give away almost £8,000 to LTDA members, so the odds of coming up surprised him with a £150 All 4 One gift card just for having his LTDA diary on show in trumps are pretty good. Just make sure you have your LTDA membership diary on display the windscreen of his cab. and let us do the rest. All 4 One cards can be spent on a huge array of items in dozens of stores, including n The 2019 LTDA members’ diaries are on their way – please make sure your address Debenhams, Argos, River Island and Marks and Spencer. is up to date so that we can send it to the right place. Call 0207 286 1046 now.

Ahmed: “This made my day.” Emerson: “Fantastic.”

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 Vehicle registration certi„cate, logbook or new  Valid MoT certi„cate (issued 13 days or less keeper’s supplement (complete with bill of sale/ before inspection) receipt) where vehicle is newly purchased prior  If vehicle is less than one year old an MoT to inspection is not required  Current vehicle licence (for renewal inspections)  Taximeter installation and calibration certi„cate,  From October 1, 2014, vehicles no longer require issued within 30 days of inspection a tax disc to be displayed. Vehicles can be taxed  Exemption certi„cate (where applicable) online or at a post o–ce. If a vehicle is not recorded as taxed, NSL will accept an online application/  Modi„cation approval (where applicable) post o–ce receipt. (information at www.gov.co.uk/  Tool to release ramps dvla nomoretaxdisc)  Tyres – must conform to manufacturer’s  Insurance certi„cate (not a copy) – properly a–xed speci„cation in the luggage compartment (see table below)

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Opens 4th February 2019

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An exclusive interview with the outgoing New York commissioner who introduced the Uber cap IF THE UBER WIM FABER CAP FITS...

INTERNATIONAL an unparalleled legacy and has raised the bar for good government. I am grateful for her service.” During a routine TLC hearing in December, Joshi t was a real shock for New York City’s taxi and warned that maintaining the congestion fee for FHV industry when barely five days into the Manhattan below 96th Street would be “devastating for I New Year, New York’s mayor Bill De Blasio and the taxi industry.” Not surprising, since just getting into Meera Joshi, CEO and Chair of the New York City a yellow cab and not even driving a meter would already Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) announced that put £4.52 on the clock. Commissioner Joshi would be leaving in March. Taxi Commissioner Joshi criticised a measure designed to Newspaper spoke to the TLC Commissioner about her support New York’s local public transport system with decision. a relatively meagre £311 million and (hopefully) curb It was Meera Joshi who in August 2018 initiated the congestion in the heart of New York, she said would one year temporary freeze on the expansion of the FHV mainly hurt the taxi and FHV industry and was badly sector (with the exemption of wheelchair-accessible thought out. Unlike London’s congestion charge, New vehicles) – a unique and innovative initiative. In doing York’s measure does not apply to private vehicles, only to so, she and mayor De Blasio (who in 2015 had lost a taxis and FHV’s. bruising fight with Uber about a proposed cap) put the My initial question to Joshi, “did you jump or were brakes on the extreme growth of Uber, Lyft and others in you pushed?,” was somewhat unkind, assuming the MEERA JOSHI: After the ‘Uber-cap’: Manhattan. It also slowed the mushrooming congestion “We’re seeing more trips and less vehicles” (possible) spat with De Blasio over this congestion fee, and pollution in New York. was the reason for her sudden departure. “Well, neither is an apt description,” she replied, “but the decision World ˆrst: Uber cap 100,000 vehicles and is mainly in use for trips by Uber, was mutual. Government grows, agencies change, and This freeze proved to be a world first and a big setback Lyft and others. turnover is a natural process. No one has said that it had for Uber in its biggest US market. Both Uber and Lyft In that period Joshi calmly stamped her authority on anything to do with my planning to step down, so it fought the proposal for a freeze, Uber particularly fearing this difficult agency: “It has been an honour to serve would be inaccurate to assume it’s a primary factor, as the effect on other big operations like London, its largest New York City through the effective regulation of you have in this question.” operation in Europe. Both argued a cap would deprive almost 200,000 drivers in over 130,000 vehicles moving New Yorkers – particularly poorer New Yorkers in the over a million people each day,” Joshi commented on “A form of usage boroughs – of transportation options, drive up fares and her March departure and added: “Thanks to a skilled control is needed” increase waiting times. and principled TLC staff – a commission dedicated to Currently, the congestion fee is on hold, thanks to a court The New York taxi industry – particularly the drivers doing the right thing – engaged industry members and case brought by New York’s taxi industry. The hearing – welcomed the freeze as it was almost on its knees by advocates, through public debate and data we increased date is set for January 17. Joshi declined to comment on falling demand, plummeting medallion (licence) prices accountability, safety, access, modernised taxi regulation, the mayor’s reasoning for not opposing the measure. (from £780,000 in 2014 to barely £156,000 in 2018). protected drivers and increased consumer protection.” She does, however, defend the mayor when I suggest Scores of taxi drivers can barely make ends meet – eight that De Blasio is not interested in protecting the taxi taxi and FHV drivers took their own lives in 2018. A minimum wage industry against the ill effects of the congestion fee: But the relationship between the owners of yellow cab With the freeze went the promise to conduct a study “That’s not a fair accusation. Everything we’ve done to medallions and Commissioner Joshi was less than cordial. into the booming FHV industry. improve the industry and address the plight of drivers They’re happy to see her go and have blamed her for not Another world first was the (enforced) minimum in these historically difficult times has been under the acting sooner against Uber. income for ride-hailing drivers, starting February 2019: mayor’s aegis, and we couldn’t have possibly achieved as Taxi drivers, however, are sad to see her go: “The £ 13.41 an hour – a £3.90 increase. The same package much as we have without his support.” timing of Commissioner Joshi’s resignation is concerning included the demand for ride-hailing companies like Joshi is not against some form of congestion charge because the crisis for New York City drivers is far from Uber and Lyft to provide the TLC with their trip data but feels it needs to be better designed. over and the Taxi and Limousine Commission’s work – just as yellow cabs do automatically. This way the to fix it is just beginning,” commented Bhairavi Desai, regulator receives a wealth of data on the activities of “The good government gift” Executive Director of the New York Taxi Workers New York’s FHV-vehicles (including ride-hailing) and What achievements are you most proud of? And how Alliance. taxis. do you see the taxi and FHV industry – and the position Has the cap worked? In London, the taxi industry Earlier, she had improved the availability of of the drivers in it – develop as a result of your policies? would very much like to see its regulator take the same wheelchair-accessible taxi and FHV vehicles across the “Unquestionably, the achievements of which I am most tough and innovative route as New York, I told the city and helped reduce the number of fatal accidents proud would be the incredible volume and quality of Commissioner. But what were the initial effects of the involving taxi drivers by 50%. data that we have brought into the process — data New York cap? “In the first quarterly report on what that is being used on a daily basis to inform traffic we’ve learned thus far, we’re seeing more trips, and Spat over congestion fee? engineering, to enforce safety laws, and to ensure that less vehicles, which is a good start,” Joshi told TAXI The Manhattan congestion fee of £1.95 for taxis and drivers are fully protected from potentially predatory newspaper. And what will happen after the 12 month £2.15 for black cars, proposed by New York’s governor bad actors whose goal is to cheat them. It is the good cap? “Now that the TLC has additional authority Cuomo and not opposed by Mayor De Blasio, led to a government gift that will keep on giving.” granted (to) us by Local Law, everything is on the table.” difference of opinion between Joshi and the mayor, who Joshi continued: “Close runners up would be the praised Joshi’s work “as a model for cities throughout the creation of wheelchair accessibility across the for hire Turbulence nation and the world.” industry, the expansion of our accessible dispatch It’s a shame Joshi leaves now as in the coming years the At her departure, De Blasio added that “under her programme across all five boroughs and the first ever effects of her policies will bear fruit. From 2014, on the leadership New Yorkers who use wheelchairs can get earnings protection for high volume app dispatch 50-year-old presided over the most turbulent five years service, passengers are assured that every driver and drivers.” u in the agency’s history. TLC regulates the taxi industry vehicle is safe, our city has detailed records of the one (the 13,587 yellow cabs) and the For Hire Vehicle sector million daily trips and New York City is the only place Wim Faber, international (New York’s black cars) which grew to now well over a where app drivers have pay protection. She will leave taxi correspondent 28 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 22 January 2019 |||| TAXI 29

NEWS IN BRIEF “Reconsider Drunk Trial of Cyclist”

Magistrates have questioned whether it is worthwhile prosecuting a cyclist accused of riding his bicycle while drunk. At King’s Lynn court, the Crown Prosecution Service was asked to reconsider the case of Nerijuis Burkiskis, of Garwood, denied being drunk in charge of a bicycle before it went to trial. Join the Krav Maga Army Burkiskis was found riding his bicycle the wrong way along the OFFERS one-way Norfolk Street at 3.20am on December 8 and arrested. With the increasing number of cabbies Chairman of the bench Bill being targeted by robbers, there’s never Hush asked the prosecutor : been a better time to sign up to our free “Are you really going to prosecute Krav Maga classes for members. this man for cycling the wrong way Even a cursory look through recent up a street? With all the public editions of TAXI would show a shocking money this is going to take to number incidents where cabbies have been bring this to trial?” placed in frightening situations. The maximum penalty is a With police unwilling or unable to help £1,000 fine, although prosecutors – it could time meet Ricky Manetta and could potentially bring a charge learn the art of self-defence. of dangerous cycling, which Ricky, who is himself a taxi driver, carries a maximum penalty of teaches the use of blocking, grappling and a £22,500 fine. The case was wrestling style moves to fend off attackers adjourned until April 3. – even those wielding weapons. Krav Maga was created in the 30s to coming back for more. He starts the next He can also help you get fit and lose protect Czech Jews from anti-Semitic course at the Orwell Centre in Wapping some of those extra pounds you gained attacks. It is purely about self-defence and on Monday, February 11. over the Christmas period. improving your health. It is open to any members who want Ricky says: “The course is designed It gives drivers piece of mind to deal to try it for the first time and even those Urgent Notice to give people confidence to deal with with situations, which can help stop them who have completed the course before, but threatening situations. The aim is to help spiralling out of control, or ending with might want a refresh. drivers get out of violent or threatening serious injury. Not only does it offer the If you are an LTDA member and DRIVER situations without having to fight.” chance to improve your fitness and general can commit to an eight-week course on Hundreds of cabbies have taken the health, but your state of mind as well. Monday afternoons between 1-3pm, then LICENCE classes and have praised them as fun and Some drivers have even claimed it call Taxi House on 0207 286 1046 and RENEWAL confidence building. improved their driving and many keep ask to register. NOTICE

If your licence expires in less Wife-beating Uber Driver Jailed than four months it is vital that you contact TPH on: COURT marriage twelve months before the sickening attack. Ullah tricked his way into his victim’s home when he An Uber driver who live streamed a video of himself beating was supposed to pick his daughter up to take to school. He 0343 222 4444 his wife for his family has been jailed for 14 months. convinced his daughter to hand over the front door key so he and request a renewal pack. Rahman Ullah, from Croydon, threatened to kill his could gain access and attack her mother. Failure to do so could result estranged wife during the WhatsApp video call. Once gaining access to the flat, Ullah called his mother in you being out of work The 38 year-old severely beat his victim with a shoe, and brother by WhatsApp video and told them that he was leaving her with two black eyes as well as other injuries. “going to kill her today”. Members of Ullah’s family in Pakistan watched the live He began to hit her with the heel of his shoe 10 to 15 Once the pack is received stream as he mimicked stabbing his 34-year-old victim with times. His wife attempted to escape the brutal attack but you must submit your a kitchen knife. was caught and dragged back into the home where she was application (especially the Sentencing Ullah to 14 months in jail at Croydon Crown then threatened with a kitchen knife. CRB disclosure application) Court, Recorder Tom Forster said: “You were engaged in a The court heard that Ullah approached his wife with the WhatsApp video call to Pakistan, informing them you were knife at hand and made a “stabbing motion” while telling her A.S.A.P. going to kill her. “I’m going to stab you”. “Not content with your boorish behaviour you pursued Ullah, who was a driver for ride-hailing app Uber, was Please refer to tph notices her to the communal hallway and by her hair dragged her arrested and claimed it was his wife that attacked him and 115/13 and 19/13 on their back into the flat. She was understandably tearful and you had in fact been the aggressor during the altercation. website for ‘official’ advice tormented her with a knife as a weapon to threaten and He eventually pleaded guilty to assaulting his wife and filmed the whole thing on a phone”. causing actual bodily harm. Ullah was also made subject to www.tfl.gov.uk/info -for/ The court heard how the pair had split from their 13 year an indefinite restraining order. taxis-and-private-hire/ 30 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 22 January 2019 |||| TAXI 31 Members Back LTDA Policy LTDA SURVEY Q1. As the largest trade group we want the LTDA to be recognised as representing a professional, forward thinking LTDA members overwhelmingly and innovative industry. When dealing with TfL, the Mayor’s O”ce, National Government/Departments, National and Local backed our policy on demos in an online Politicians, Local Authorities and anyone else, our current policy survey conducted by the association in the –rst instance to: Respond to consultations in the trades last month. The poll was launched on interests correspond with, meet and engage with (the above) gather supporting evidence, if necessary lobby and involve other survey monkey in order to get a better relevant stakeholders. And only as a very last resort to consider Q2. How relevant and e›ective (in achieving our aims) understanding of our members views picket lines, demos etc. Is this policy current and correct? do you think demonstrations are in 2019? in relation to protests, and whether the LTDA is right to favour staging targeted demonstrations as a last resort. The association has been criticised by a handful of drivers – many of them former members – for not supporting having a protest every time somebody does something the trade doesn’t like. But the LTDA feels having too many protests, not only decreases their impact but infuriates businesses and road users, turning them against the trade. But thousands of drivers took part in the survey and backed a more judicious use of the strategy, despite attempts by some to subvert it.

Q3. Should the LTDA actively support demonstrations called by other taxi groups? Q4. Which factors should help us make a decision? Q5. During which hours do you work the bulk of your shift?

Which group is Always calling the demo 05.00hrs & 19.00hrs Likelihood of achieving our aims

It depends on Level of disruption 15.00hrs the reasons to the public & 22.00hrs

Likelihood of getting On a scale of 1-5 public support please rate these reasons according 22.00hrs Never Potential to to their relevance generate media where 5 is very & 05.00hrs support relevant and 1 is not at all relevant

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 0 10 20 30 40 50 60

OFFER Get a Free Personal Training Session A London taxi driver and „tness coach has teamed up with the LTDA to help his fellow cabbies shape up. Gary Bedford has been involved with the noble art of boxing for almost 40 years and knows a thing or to about health and „tness. The cabbie of 30 years is o§ering an initial consultation, with a free „tness test and one-hour free training session to LTDA members. And for the next four lessons, LTDA members get a 50% discount. The sessions will include boxing training, circuit training and cardio work, and also relaxation techniques, all designed to improve strength and conditioning. Based at the West Thurrock Boxing and Fitness Club, Gary battled in the amateur boxing ranks for many years before going on to coach juniors and seniors at his local boxing club. He said: “I’ve been working as a taxi driver for 30 years and I know what a toll the stresses and strains of the job can put on the mind and body. I want to help drivers get „t and feel sharper and more con„dent in their daily lives and believe I have the knowledge, experience and dedication to do that. Come along for the check up and the „rst-class courtesy of the LTDA - what have you got to lose?” Training is o§ered one to one, or in small groups, in West Thurrock on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Free gym membership and discounted rates are available for LTDA members and their families. For an initial consultation, with a free „tness test and one-hour free training session, please contact Gary on 07811 965 176. 32 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

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One of Alf’s biggest fans wants to know if the TAXI scribe is still with us? A MISSIVE FROM ALF TOWNSEND BEYOND THE GRAVE?

TAXI TALK Your well-being is more important than anything else.

his is the time of the year that Stars on Spotify the old hacks and journos Apparently today’s youngsters are not T call “the silly season” because like us old timers who used to save our nothing much is happening in the big, pennies every week to buy the latest wide world and they are all struggling hit record by Elvis, Frankie Laine or to dig up a decent article. Their the Beatles. In fact they don’t buy any readers have had a good jolly-up over records at all, they simply click on their Christmas and the New Year and are all mobiles and, after paying around a skint and are counting down the days tenner a month to Spotify, they listen to their next wage packet. They tend to the music app all day and night! to drag out an old story and tart it up At the time of writing this piece their so that it appears up-to-date. In effect favourite song seems to be Yesterday, they fabricate a silly story for the silly composed and sung by Jack Howard season! I’m going to start my column and his band, with twin brother Bertie with a one such story that fits in nicely Get Well Soon Chris who rent the George pull out after a year playing a mean guitar. The latest count – especially the ending which is hard to As an old geezer blessed, or cursed, with or so! I can hark back to the 60s when we for the single is a massive 25,000 hits, comprehend even though it’s the truth a young, enquiring mind, whenever a actually sat in the shelter for our grub. so log on to Spotify and hear it. Why – scout’s honour! I have named it – situation bugs me I need to try and sort Then they re-designed it to attract the am I prattling on about something I Taxi Talk from the Big Cab Rank in it out to satisfy my pea-brain! This latest builders, lorry drivers and whoever was obviously don’t know about? Answer, the Sky! bugging was centred around the taxi passing. I don’t know if Chris can wangle Jack and Bertie Howard are my 19- My son Nick is a regular at Heathrow shelter on the George rank. I pass it on his way out of the Camden contract year old twin Grandsons. I don’t fully and is quite well known because of buses around half-a-dozen times a week because of ill-health, but I wish him all understand the Spotify process, but his active involvement as a committee and it’s been closed for a long time. I the best with his future operation. I’m thrilled to bits for the boys! u member in Unite the Union – plus the thought at first that Chris, mine host, had fact that the union lanyard around his gone on a holiday before Christmas, but neck has his photo and name on it. He the weeks rolled by and it was still closed. tells me that he often gets stopped by My pea-brain was satisfied recently cabbies who recognise him to say how when I hailed a cab outside the Royal much they enjoy reading my articles. Free Hospital to take me home. We COLTS CABS LTD On the down side, he also gets cabbies got chatting and the cabbie told me he who think I write crap. But he’s very was a regular at the George shelter and 100 102 DUNBRIDGE STREET LONDON, E2 6JG laid back and tells these people that according to him Chris, the friendly guy if they think I write rubbish, then the in his fifties who runs the shelter, had simple answer is don’t read it! He was suffered a second heart attack in a year. DON’T DRIVE AROUND stopped recently by a polite, middle- So he was at home, too unwell to work aged cabbie who told him that he had and waiting for major heart surgery. He HOT AND BOTHERED read every one of my articles since he couldn’t afford to pay someone to run got his bill some 20 years ago! He then the shelter and he was lumbered with asked Nick in a serious voice, “is your a pricey, business rates contract until AIR CONDITIONED TAXIS dad still alive?” Perhaps he thought next March. Camden Council charge the someone else was ghost writing my second highest business rates out of all the ALWAYS AVAILABLE columns for me. This shook Nick but London boroughs and, according to my he could see the guy was genuine so he info, they unfairly, at least in my opinion, replied. Well, I saw him last night and charge the George shelter, which only sells COMPLETE WITH even though he had drunk too many sandwiches and drinks, the same rates as rum and cokes, he was definitely still all the posh restaurants in Hampstead! 24 - HOUR NATIONAL BREAKDOWN NUMBER alive!’ Scout’s honour, it’s true! This is the reason why so many of those NO ACCIDENT EXCESS

Camden Council charge the second highest FULL GARAGE FACILITIES business rates out of all the London LONDON’S LARGEST AND NEWEST boroughs and, according to my info, they FLEET OF TAXIS unfairly, at least in my opinion, charge the George shelter, which only sells sandwiches TELEPHONE and drinks, the same rates as all the posh 020 7613 0684 | 020 7613 0630 restaurants in Hampstead! 34 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

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A healthy diet plan leads Mr Meg to Greggs and a scu e with angry vegans MR MEG VERSUS MUSHER MEG THE VEGANS we would go all Gwyneth Paltrow and be more we live in when a bloke can’t eat his sausage roll LICENSED TO CHAT mindful about eating. Mr Meg’s face looked “What in peace?” He was extremely uncomplimentary puzzled at first when I told him we were going sort of about the skinny student type with pink hair to eat healthy food while sat at the table and who’d tackled him. This lad was so determined ver Christmas and New Year there was a in silence, so we could concentrate on every country to get the sausage roll off Mr Meg that he food mountain at Meg Towers. Friends, mouthful. do we live jumped on him and clung on with his arms Ofamily and neighbours popped in and Mr Meg seized on the quiet meals part. “So, around his neck and his legs around his waist, out of the house and helped themselves to what you won’t be talking?” he checked. When I in when screaming “murderer!” was on offer. And they chatted, often with their nodded yes to that he beamed and said, “great! a bloke Mr Meg walked out of the shop and tried to mouths full, and did that yucky talking/spitting I’m in!” Said with all the romance of a man who get the vegan protester off him and dump him food thing. has been married for three and a bit decades. can’t down onto the pavement by doing some extreme Chocolates, Christmas cake, cheese and As he headed back to work the first week in shimmying. A passing police officer intervened, crackers, juicy satsumas…clumps of them have January, I reminded him, “Mindful eating” and eat his at first believing Mr Meg was the aggressor. all travelled my way as people chewed, talked nodded down at the quinoa, sunflower seed and sausage There was an unseemly scuffle and a lot of and laughed. cottage cheese salad in his lunchbox, “and no shouting. Mr Meg’s second cousin sat on my couch eating or snacking on the go.” “Got it!” he told roll in The happy ending is that the police officer eating pickled onions and cheesy crackers while me smiling down (or was it laughing?) at his peace?” caught up on the fact that Mr Meg was under telling me about a bloke he’d heard taking Tupperware container. attack and dealt severely with the protestor. She part in a radio phone-in quiz. This contestant Five hours later Mr Meg “mindlessly” popped patted him on the head and told him not to do it answered the question, “give me a celebrity’s into a Greggs in central London for a sausage again. Luckily, Mr Meg’s sausage roll survived, it name that starts with the letter Q” with “I know roll. He was still inside and about to take the was squashed but saved! And still almost warm. this one! Q Jackson!” After the punchline he first bite of his contraband when someone tried But the man is now suffering from PTSRD laughed so hard with his mouth full and open to grab it from his hands. (post traumatic sausage roll disorder) and says he that there may still be traces of cracker and onion Six vegan protesters had surrounded Mr is sticking with the superfood salads in silence on the front room wallpaper. Meg and were chanting “scum, scum, scum!” regime. However, my spies have reported After all the excess of Christmas I decided Mr Meg, telling me the story a few hours seeing his van outside McDonalds on more that January was going to be the month when later was outraged, “what sort of country do than one occasion. u

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Gig Economy STAY IN THE KNOW

Scam Uncovered 15 year reminder you must notify LTPH immediately The London taxi 15 year age limit (0343 222 4444 / tph.enquiries EMPLOYMENT illegally. Using fake insurance, fake refers to the cab’s ‘birthday’ @tfl.gov.uk) residence papers.” (in the log book) not its You may then continue Uber Eats and Deliveroo couriers are Couriers can nominate substitutes plate date. working. A letter of renting out their work to unvetted because they are not employees. For example: confirmation will be sent illegal immigrants, it has Deliveroo couriers are A cab passed when out to you by Transport been discovered. supposed to carry out it is 14 years and 11 for London, prior to a Both companies allow checks but do not need to months old WILL be replacement identifier couriers to appoint confirm this, while Uber granted a further 12 being processed. “substitutes” who are Eats riders are suposed months of life. supposed to be legitimate to provide proof of the Cabs may be booked in for Shop a tout workers. substitute’s right to work. testing in the normal way when Anyone who sees touting or any But whistleblowers have The practise is believed the plate has 28 days or less to run. other form of illegal cab-related said that black-market to be so widespread that The cab can then work up to activity is urged to contact TfL workers, possibly with some couriers dubbed it a joke. the test date. If the plates are taken with the details. criminal records and no insurance, are Couriers can nominate substitutes off with more than 28 days to Take down the registration paying up to £100 a week to deliver food because they are contractors, which run, both the plates and the paper number and make a note of the without undergoing any checks. means the firms have fewer obligations to licence must be surrendered to one date, time and location where They are said to use genuine them than to staff. Deliveroo of the six NSL inspection centres in incident took place. couriers credentials to log couriers are supposed to and around London. Type “cab enforcement” into into the apps and accept carry out checks but do not The ‘unplated’ cab must then your internet search engine and orders, enabled by a lack of need to confirm this. Uber not be worked, and at least one follow the links to the ‘report illegal safeguards. Eats couriers are supposed week should be allowed before activity’ section of the TfL website. The companies appear to provide proof of the attempting to book the next NSL to have ignored warnings substitute’s right to work. test, to allow the computerised DVLA reminder about the scam. Uber Eats said anyone booking system to recognise that The photo card part of the driving Ray Phil, of the UK “who delivers with Uber the plates have been registered. licence lasts for 10 years and must Motorcycle Theft Protest Eats must adhere to a strict renewed after that period. The group, tweeted to Uber Eats set of safety-based criteria.” Lost/stolen identi‚er licence becomes invalid if it is not and Uber’s accounts, saying: “UberEats, Deliveroo said reports of illegal workers If your identifier is lost or stolen renewed with a current picture. you need to sort your app security asap. renting accounts were “alleged only” and Hundreds of people renting accounts “completely unproven.” HALVEY ENGINEERING

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*Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers and prices subject to change without notice. FAIRFX - Subject to minimum load of £50, €60 or $75. New customers only. Columbus Direct - Free lounge access requires registration and applies to selected scheduled flights and airports. Holiday Extras - Airport Parking offer: Save 13% on all airport parking products excluding APH special offer products, Leeds Bradford Mid or Short Stay, NCP Edinburgh and airport owned products at Aberdeen, Belfast International, Birmingham, Exeter, Glasgow International, Glasgow Prestwick, Heathrow, Luton and Southend. Discounts will be unavailable at Gatwick and Airparks products during selected stay dates. Airport Hotel offer: 10% discount automatically applied when booking via the dedicated link. Airport Lounge offer: 10% discount available on all UK lounges. Discounts are not obtainable on International lounges. Airport Transfers offer: 10% discount automatically applied when booking via the dedicated link. LTDA Plus is managed and run on behalf of LTDA by Parliament Hill Ltd. LTDA are an Introducer Appointed Representative of Parliament Hill Ltd of 3rd Floor, 127 Cheapside, London, EC2V 6BT who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for non-investment insurance mediation under registration number 308448. Details can be checked on the Financial Services register by visiting the FCA’s web site at https://fca.org.uk/register. Neither LTDA nor Parliament Hill are part of the same group as the providers. **Calls to this number cost 11 pence per minute, plus your phone provider’s access charge. @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 22 January 2019 |||| TAXI 39

PUZZLER PRIZE CROSSWORD

omplete our crossword puzzle and be in with a chance to win £50! Send your entry to: Crossword 435, Taxi, Taxi House, 11 Woodfield Road, W9 2BA C before February 22. The first name out of the proverbial hat wins the cash! u ACROSS: DOWN: 7 Cured ham (6) 1 Residential van (6)

8 Inform (6) 2 Prayer end (4)

9 Bridge (4) 3 Soft shoe (7)

10 License (8) 4 Rap (5)

11 Judge (7) 5 Cheapest ship rooms (8)

13 Greek alphabet letter (5) 6 Pronounce (6)

15 Young person (5) 12 Inside (8) CROSSWORD #435 17 Neanderthal (4, 3) 14 Clergyman’s garment (7) WINNER: ISSUE 433 — Phillip Gee, Southgate 20 Courageous (8) 16 Wild cat (6) ACROSS: DOWN: 21 Record (4) 18 Deed (6) 1 Spam, 3 Snapshot, 9 Reigned, 1 Strident, 2 Adieu, 4 Nod, 10 Mogul, 11 Double agents, 5 Pumpernickel, 6 High tea, 22 Racing vehicle (2, 4) 19 Left-handed person (5) 14 Now, 16 Spoon, 17 Ash, 7 Talc, 8 English horns, 12 Afoot, 18 Architecture, 21 Usher, 13 Sheep dip, 15 Worship, 23 Jailer (6) 21 Back of the neck (4) 22 Knee pad, 23 Apposite, 24 Prep 19 Upper, 20 Aura, 22 Kit

only know three pieces. On TV shows a lot of OVERHEARD Have a go them mime to their records. I saw one where at this it was obvious the pianist was miming. He still PUZZLER medium had the lid down. Les Dawson played the piano level Sudoku ictor Hugo once said: “Music expresses for years on and off. He had a slippery stool. puzzle. that which cannot be put into words.” He specialised in haunting melodies. Haunting Fill the grid V Well I can put into words what I think because he murdered them. Les would break SUDOKU so that every of so-called modern music. I find most of today’s into a song at a moment’s notice. Mind you, if row, every bands play two types of music - loud and very he found the right key, he wouldn’t have had to column and loud. If Van Gogh were alive today, he’d cut break in. He was such a bad pianist, when he every 3x3 off both his ears. And the lyrics need played the National Anthem, people Just for box contains English subtitles. As one record sat down. Even he admitted the the numbers producer said to a songwriter Venus De Milo could play fun... 1-9 just once “It should be a hit. I can’t better. Cliff Richard seems understand a word of to have been around it.” I’m certainly not forever in the music impressed with rap business. When he music either. I think started there were the word should only six songs in have a “c” in front of the top 10. One of it. The truth is some his first gigs was at modern musicians Buckingham Palace. don’t know their brass Apparently, Queen from their oboe. I’m Victoria loved it. But told that most youngsters Cliff’s finally started to listen to pop music because look his age. Last week they’re miserable. Whereas I’m he was in a taxi and, making miserable because I listen to pop idle conversation about the warm music. A lot of it sounds like it was recorded at weather, said, “Gonna be 90 today.” The driver 33 rpm speed and played back at 78. I don’t looked at him and said, “Happy birthday.” mind facing the music, I just don’t like listening On music, Woody Allen said: “I can’t listen to to it. Music groups come and go so quickly. that much Wagner. I get the urge to conquer That’s show biz for you. One day you’re on top Poland.” Bob Monkhouse said: “I’m a classical and next day on the tip. The Village People sang music enthusiast. I listen to it Bach to Bach.” about the YMCA. Today they’re probably living And Ken Dodd quipped: “It took Brahms six in one. They always had six in the group. Not months to get his lullaby down on paper. Every for harmony, for protection. Mostly we have time he played it he fell asleep.” u Puzzles © 2018 Puzzler Media Ltd.www.puzzler.com three-piece bands, which usually means they —Brad Ashton 40 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

THE BIG ONE! The membership of the LTDA is 40 times greater than some other driver organisations!

HERE’S WHY... YOUR FUTURE HEATHROW OFFICE AND VEHICLE MANUFACTURERS The LTDA remains the only trade REPRESENTATION Continually representing members’ body resolutely opposed to the Call in to the LTDA office at Heathrow, interests in disputes with vehicle CAUTION computerisation of the Knowledge of first door on the right in the canteen manufacturers and suppliers. London testing system. block. The LTDA’s representatives will AUTHORITIES AND MEDIA The LTDA legal service is (No to the quickie Knowledge give you a warm welcome. (Open to all). The LTDA is the largest and most the only trade scheme which campaign). respected driver organisation in defends members for ALL WELFARE DEPARTMENT the trade. We lead the way when alleged offences (traffic, INLAND REVENUE LTDA officers make home visits to negotiating with the Government, hackney or criminal), anytime, ASSISTANCE AND ADVICE members who are in severe distress GLA, TfL, Police, Mayor’s Office, anywhere in the UK. Non Many drivers and accountants refer or with special needs and authorise Heathrow, Rail Authorities, Local members are advised to to the LTDA for specialist advice on contingency payments where Councils and when dealing with all check carefully the exceptions Inland Revenue investigations. appropriate. sections of the media. and exclusions contained (Free to members). RANKS AND HIGHWAYS or imposed by other MEDICAL ASSISTANCE SICKNESS AND REPRESENTATION legal protection schemes Many cab drivers are discovering to ACCIDENT PROTECTION circulating in our trade. The LTDA has negotiated taxi access their cost that their licences are at When trouble strikes it’s comforting to most bus lanes and leads the way risk due to the TfL’s interpretation to know that you’ve got the strength negotiating on issues that affect you, of the new DVLA Group 2 Medical BADGESAFE SCHEME of the LTDA around you. (Additional the licensed taxi driver. Standards. The LTDA has successfully subscription payable). challenged many decisions by the The LTDA retains experienced GENERAL ADVICE TfL to revoke members’ licences on barristers with specialist knowledge LTDA HOLIDAY CLUB If you are new to the trade and you medical grounds. of the London cab trade. Normally Many members have saved don’t know your `roader’ from your when drivers accumulate 12 points on thousands of pounds by taking `legal’, give us a call. We’re always here FANTASTIC VALUE their licence they receive an automatic advantage of special offers and prices to help. (Tel: 020 7286 1046 - non LTDA subscriptions have not 6 month ban, but in the case of (members only). members are welcome to call). increased for 14 years! It costs just 4 LTDA members over 90% of those quid a week to join the trade’s biggest WIN £5,000 EVERY 24 HOUR TOUT LINE represented by our barristers receive a organisation and 3 quid of that is tax MONTH IN THE ban of just 1 month or in most cases Seen a tout in action? Take the details deductible! LTDA LOTTERY no ban whatsoever. and phone them in, we will do the rest. (Payable monthly). 12 big prizes every year, but you have (Tel: 020 7266 4769). EXPERTISE = SUCCESS to be in it to win it (members only £5 HEALTH AND SPORTS The LTDA’s in-house lawyers are per entry). PROMOTION proud of their unrivalled record of court ACCESS TO triumphs; in fact the rate of acquittals We regularly run promotions with ‘SIMPLY HEALTH’ for members defended leading health and sports companies in court by the LTDA is 4 times Great value health care from resulting in big savings to members. the LTDA. The Association pioneered higher than the national average. This LEISURE DISCOUNTS unparalleled level of success is due this scheme in the taxi trade and it entirely to the expertise acquired by the still offers the cheapest rates. (Special Huge savings on weekend breaks at fine LTDA over many years of specialising rates for LTDA members only). hotels and holiday centres. You will not in cab related legal matters. believe these prices! (Members only).

To learn more about LTDA benefits and current joining offers call: 020 7286 1046 or visit www.ltda.co.uk @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 22 January 2019 |||| TAXI 41 COLTS CABS LTD HAVE MOVED NEW PREMISES ARE 100 102 DUNBRIDGE STREET LONDON, E2 6JG

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A selection of our numerous Published by LTDA LTDA Distribution Points Taxi House 11 Wood eld Road, London W9 2BA u A1 Taxis, Melody Lane, Highbury, N5 T: 020 7286 1046 | www.ltda.co.uk u Abacus Accounts, Southbrook Road, @TheLTDA Lee, SE12 ONE STOP MOT u Astral Café, Regency Place, SW1 Managing Editor u Bubbles Car Wash, E2 Steve Still T: 0207 121 0523 LTD u C & S Taxis, Dunbridge Street, E2 E: [email protected] u Cabsurance, Seven Kings AND S&H CABS The Massett File Richard Massett u Camber eld Taxi Services International News Wim Faber u Computer Cab, Mitre Way, W12 Two Fingers Al Fresco u Coney Allen, Dunbridge Street, E1 Taxi Talk Alf Townsend u CP Beehive Service Station, Overheard Brad Ashton Beehive Lane, Gants Hill Licensed to Chat Musher Meg u Cricklewood Carriers, Cricklewood u Dial A Cab, City Road, N1 Produced by u Edgware Station Rank Century One Publishing Ltd u Euston Station Rank Alban Row,27-31 Verulam Road u G & L Taxis, Crayford Road, N7 St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4DG. u Globe Transmissions, T: F: Cudworth Street, E1 01727 893 894, 01727 893 895 u The Ham, Brentford E: [email protected] TAXI MOT £20 u Heathrow Airport Canteen www.centuryonepublishing.uk u Hexagon Garage, Lukin Street, E1 Advertising Sales Executive u Jet Garage, Clipstone Street, W1 Jack Green T: 01727 739 196 u Knowledge Centre, Caledonian Road u KPM, Hemming Street, E1 E: [email protected] u London City Airport Canteen Advertising Sales Manager We also offer repairs, u LP Motors, Dunbridge Street, E2 Jonny Knight u Martin Cordell, E3 and Stanmore E: [email protected] u Paddington Station Rank tyres and maintenance work u Putney Bridge Taxis, The Arches, Art Editor All rights reserved. No part of this publication Putney Bridge Station, SW6 Alan Booth may be reproduced, stored u Richmond Road Taxi Centre, E8 in a retrieval system or transmitted by any means u Safewise Supermarket, Harrow Advert Coordinator electronic, mechanical or u by photocopying without South Bank Service Station, Caitlyn Hobbs prior permission of the Call: Great Su‘olk Street, SE1 publishers. The views and 0208 8031437 opinions expressed in u TAXI HOUSE, W9 Printed by this publication may not necessarily be those of the u Taxi & Private Hire, Blackfriars Rd, SE1 Manson Group, St Albans publishers. Please note that u the last day for inclusion Temple Place Shelter of Classified lineage adver- u Tent Street Taxi Centre, E2 tisements is five working days prior to publication. u Turbo Accessories, Three Colts Lane, E2 No liability is accepted by u Waterloo Station the publisher should adver- tisements not appear in the BLACK CABS AVAILABLE FOR HIRE. NEW DRIVERS WELCOME. u Wimbledon Station Rank requested issue(s). While the publisher will take u WizAnn Knowledge School, every care to ensure ac- 5 Fairfield Road, Edmonton, N18 2QP curacy, no liability can be Watts Grove, E3 accepted for loss or dam- age resulting from errors. @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 22 January 2019 |||| TAXI 43 44 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

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Please note that the image below is not necessarily actual size. The final press ready INSURANCE version will be emailed to you for your records and future use on approval of artwork.

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Should you require any amendments to the artwork above please indicate them clearly on this page and return this form by email or fax (in the first instance) within 2 working days. Failure to return this form will signal acceptance. You will receive a single round of amends and a further proof to sign off for print. If further changes are required this may incurr an additional production charge of £20 for each additional proof sent.

MAGAZINE: LTDA Taxi NAME: ISSUE: 231 SIGNATURE:

SIZE: Sixteenth page BOOK YOUR LINAGE ARTWORK CHARGE: n/a SECTION: Classified ND BOOKING DEADLINE 2 JAN 2019 DESIGNER: Sarah Astington DATE: EMAIL: [email protected] APPROVED FOR PRINT Please tick UP TO 15 WORDS: £35 +VAT one box PHONE: 01727 739 189 AMENDS TO BE MADE thank you UP TO 25 WORDS: £45 +VAT UP TO 35 WORDS: £55 +VAT 46 TAXI |||| 22 January 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

LINAGE

G TXIIs & TX4s TO RENT, GOOD MONTHS plate. 176,000miles. G TXII WHITE 2004. PLATED ACCOUNTANTS reliable service, Waterloo Garage £6350. Excellent condition. 07981 until 07/01/20. 18 months left of SE1, Call Andy – 07964 943659 909727 Ricki age. £2500. 07728 818893 G CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS specialising in the taxi trade. G TXIIs/TX4s, ROMFORD BASED, CABS WANTED G Accounts and tax returns £312inc from £175pw, 24-hour backup, TX4 2011. EXCELLENT VAT. Call 0208 360 1446 own garage, body shop, 01708 condition. Plated until October G ALL TXIs & RETIRING 347288/07715 512263 2019. 1 owner. FSH. 98,600 miles. TXIIs wanted, instant decision - G TAXI TAX SPECIALIST WE’RE £13,500ono. 07733 364364 cash paid. Tel: 07973 335739 Drivertax - we’ve been helping G A TX4 FROM £200PW. BASED OR 01253 407500 the trade for 25 years. in Kingsbury. NW London. RAC G Tax sorted from £30 per month. Backup. Spare Cab. 0208 200 8488. TX4 ELEGANCE. 15 REG. G ALL CABS WANTED, WE Call 020 8529 2600 07956 422658 Charcoal Grey. Excellent condition. come to you, top prices paid, FSH. 69,000miles. Reverse sensors. cash/ bank transfer, instant G TX4s FROM 200PW. NO ADS. Leather driver’s seat. Weather decision, finance settled, non- AIR CONDITIONING Full back up with spare cab. E1 runners or sell & rent back, shields. £23,750ono. 07949 235920 garage. Phone 0207 481 2584 call 07956 317300 G MOBILE AUTO AIR G conditioning service and repair G VNK Motors -TXIIs & TX4s for 64 PLATE TX4 ELEGANCE. G ALL CABS WANTED. WE for taxis, Telephone Nick on rent, from £170pw-£225pw. Full Plated until October. 95,000 miles. come to you. Any condition quick 07785 900006 7 days back up, Caledonia Road, North FSH. 1 owner from new. Excellent decision. Instant cash paid. London area, breakdown service, condition throughout. £23,995. Call 07763 699767. overhauls, running repairs & CABS FOR RENT body work. 0207 700 1045 or Stuart on 07738 731902. G CABS URGENTLY WANTED, 07951 661430 – Nick Any condition, cash same day, G LONG LANE CABS, CABS FOR G VITO 2014 REG. 1 OWNER. sell and rent back. Call Roy G rent. TXII & TX4s. East London. 59 TX4 TO RENT. £180 CROYDON Excellent condition. 73,000miles. 07956 293748 Call 020 7401 8188 or 07970 149173. area. Pay in bank. AA back up. Plated until July. £32,000ono. Paul Clean/reliable cab. 07949 144485 07758 809227 G FIRST 2 WEEKS HALF PRICE. DRIVERS WANTED TX4s for rent. 24hr recovery and back-up. 07877 093866 EastLondon CABS FOR SALE G TXII SILVER, 55 REG. PLATED G FRIENDLY/RELIABLE DRIVER AndEssexTaxiRentals.co.uk until March 2019. Quick Sell. £2995 wanted – TX4 (2010), no adverts, G ASSORTED LATE TXIIs AND 07478 219557 full back-up, 195p/week. For G TXIIs & TX4s FOR RENT, FULL early TX4s for sale. Prices from £4000. details call 07966 199657 back up, Family garage, Old Kent Call 07950 811150 for more info. G Road based 0207 358 1272 TX4 BRONZE 09. 157,000 MILES. G 58 VITO, VERY GOOD condition FSH. Plated until August 2019. MISCELLANEOUS G ALL MERCEDES VITOS TO low mileage 12 months plate £9,950 £8500ono. 07904 171115 & 07926 G rent. Full back up. Prices starting 07956 211478 208446 AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHER from 200pw. 07508 977592 with awesome British Bulldog G 2011 VITO EURO 5. VERY LOW G seeking pale Blue/Pink/Purple G TX4s FOR HIRE, NO ADS, mileage and excellent condition. VITO 17 REG, EURO 6. 46,000 Taxi for photoshoot with dog. FULL backup, RAC cover, 07980 Plated. £15,950 07956 211478 miles. Blue. Very good condition 3 hours / your hourly rate. 288333 G 59 REG TX4. SILVER. 9 £37,900ono. 07749 371203 Please call Stacey 07933 577073.

PLACE YOUR LINAGE BY WEDNESDAY JANUARY 30TH FOR TAXI 436 UP TO 15 WORDS: £35 UP TO 25 WORDS: £45 UP TO 35 WORDS: £55 CALL JACK ON 01727 739 196 @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 22 January 2019 |||| TAXI 47

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