LTDA

The newspaper of the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association www.ltda.co.uk @TheLTDA POLICE: p6 #439 19 March 2019 BLUNDER CLEARS INNOCENT CABBIE

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DANGEROUS NEW APP ENABLES TOUTS Cribble exploits loophole to dodge TfL threat 2 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA Dangerous new app enables touts

TRADE said: “It’s difficult to imagine why TfL would try to obstruct a new model that offers customers choice and A new app which allows unvetted minicab drivers tries to bring private hire drivers a little more pay, but and touts to offer themselves for work has launched in the politics of black cab drivers and investors with deep London despite threats of legal action by TfL. pockets can’t be ruled out. Cribble, which uses the tagline “the people’s taxi “The bottom line is that TfL need to put up or shut app,” sought to exploit the free for all created by Uber up.” and to skirt the regulations. The app company then altered its Terms and The Belgium based company was supposed to Conditions to say that the service was designed for have been refused a licence by TfL, but ploughed on moving “stuff” not people. regardless, instead launching as an app for moving It claimed it is “not a taxi app where drivers offer stuff, rather than people. rides to passengers. It’s an app where drivers can offer But within minutes of the launch, an LTDA gigs to clients.” employee with no taxi licence had managed to sign up Transport for London issued a statement to private to the app to offer themselves for work. hire drivers warning them they “risk prosecution and They were also able to sign up and book rides with licensing action” if they sign up to the app – but the numerous minicab drivers - many of them driving a regulator would be powerless to stop touts on the app. Prius - to move a bag and themselves to Notting Hill. Cribble clients are now told to “simply take a photo One driver offered to take the job for £65. of something, describe their vehicle and gig in a few Michael Stack, Interim Head of Licensing TfLTPH, words and can start driving once they have registered has threatened parent company Pro Transfers Limited to get paid with cards and/or cash. with court action. It says “Cribble doesn’t define the gigs. That’s the Stack told Cribble “It is appropriate to warn you job of the driver and we expect a wide range of services that should you look to introduce this solution, we to be offered by the creative drivers who will seize the will consider whether licensing action is required to opportunity.” be taken against you as the operator and also against The company added: “The launch was almost any driver who was available to you and has accepted a delayed by a hostile attack from TfL on Friday, but booking made via this proposed channel.” swift action to redefine the service in a way that takes Despite the high risk to public safety of such an TfL out of the equation has allowed the launch to unregulated cowboy service, Cribble said it planned proceed on schedule. to launch on March 11 anyway, suggesting that TfL’s “Everyone is warned that this is an adult only service words were a hollow threat. where gigs are agreed between consenting adults who In a Twitter post to its proposed drivers, Cribble, each cover their own risks.”

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Unlikely lawsuit aside, the mayor had no other option but to make minicab drivers pay the C-Charge PRIVATE HIRE PLAYS STEVE MCNAMARA THE RACE CARD TOP TRADE STORY

ur trade has bumped along with the local minicab operators and trade in London since the O 1960s. It was never a friendly relationship but we had our role and they invented one for themselves at the bottom end of the market. Then all this changed with the arrival of the big app operators with big budgets and an even bigger attitude. Their arrival pretty much decimated the existing minicab trade across the suburbs, although surprisingly in some areas the bigger and better run established minicab firms have continued to dominate and Uber’s market penetration is minimal to non-existent. With this came a massive explosion in the number of minicabs and with it the massive problems of increased congestion and pollution. The Congestion Charge was first introduced at the same time as the minicab industry was being licensed for the first time and as an incentive to speed up licensing applications, licensed PHVs were offered an exemption to the C Charge whilst they had a passenger on board. In the first few years the numbers entering the zone averaged around 4,000 per day, fast forward 18 years and the figure is now around 18,000 a day and the level of congestion is clear for all to see. the mayor sets our fares and If the cap ts Every single report on road congestion produced makes us drive a £65,000 On a separate note, some of you might over the last four years clearly identifies the number vehicle and that we are remember that late last year I went to of minicabs as a major contributory factor. While the “compellable” so that if see the London Assembly’s Transport Government still refuses to give Mayor Sadiq Khan the asked to take a passenger Committee to talk about what needs to power to cap minicab numbers and citing his ability to use into the congestion charge be further done to reduce the impact of the Congestion Charge to control the problem, it’s hardly area we must comply. private hire vehicles on London’s traffic a surprise he is withdrawing their exemption from April 8. Minicab drivers do not congestion and pollution problems. I’ve At the same time any diesel minicab that is not Euro VI have to accept any hiring. heard that the committee’s findings will (roughly anything prior to a 65 plate) will also have to pay If they do they can charge be published in the next few weeks and the T charge making a grand total of £36.50 a day, so its what they want, and I’m really hoping that they get behind the not a shock to learn that the minicab trade is up in arms. if drivers are properly recommendation that the Department for Even though they are livid they pretty much recognise controlled, as the minicab Transport’s independent working group that they don’t have a leg to stand on, they are causing industry is meant to be, put to Government on granting cities like congestion and they are contributing to London’s operators can utilise and London the power to cap private hire atrocious air quality. Grasping at straws they have decided maximise the use of vehicles already numbers. I’ll make sure to keep you they will try spinning it into a race argument, quoting in the CC zone. This will limit their exposure to in the loop. u that 85% of taxi drivers are white whereas 94% of the charge and reducing the number of vehicles minicab drivers are from a BAME background! They fail unnecessarily entering the zone, which is what the Steve McNamara is the to mention that 100% of taxis are wheelchair accessible, mayor is trying to do. LTDA’s General Secretary

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A prototype electric MPV with a 249-mile range and seating for up to eight people was unveiled by Mercedes Benz at the Geneva motor show. The Concept EQV is based on the V-Class, and could form the basis for the next generation taxi. An electric Vito taxi is due to be tested in the coming months and could go on sale next year. The EQV is the latest sign of the Stuttgart based manufacturer’s desire to keep pace with the demand for new greener technology. The MPV could go on sale by 2020 and Mercedes says it will show a full production version at the Frankfurt motor show later this year. The EQV features a 100kWh underfloor battery with a 249-mile range. It also has a 201bhp motor driving the front wheels and a 99mph top speed. Mercedes says a rapid charger enables 62 miles of range to be added in 15 minutes. There is also a large central touchscreen, which has voice and gesture control as part of the latest version of the MBUX infotainment system. The Concept EQV was presented with a single motor and front-wheel drive. The company has already unveiled plans for a short-range electric Mercedes eSprinter van, which is scheduled to go on sale in 2020. The Mercedes eVito is due to go on sale later this year and is also designed with short hop delivery runs in mind, having a range of just 93 miles. C-Charge Challengers Demand Fees Cap LEGAL

The minicab union threatening to sue the mayor over his “racist” plans to make drivers pay the C-Charge has urged him to cap its liability to losses in the High Court. The Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) is attempting to use the mayor’s own words against him after raising just £16,500 for a judicial review that could cost more than £100,000. Sadiq Khan has previously argued that community groups should not You are worried about your costs as be priced out of challenging policy a community group in challenging through judicial reviews. a public authority decision. That’s The Good Law Project, which not the sort of country I want to sought to make Uber pay VAT, live in.” recently asked the court to limit its When IWGB challenged costs to no avail. Deliveroo in the courts, the The IWGB claims that the plan company agreed to cost capping, to make minicab drivers pay the while Uber agreed to zero costs. £11.50 charge discriminates against General Secretary Jason Moyer- ethnic minorities who will bear the Lee told the mayor, “I trust you will brunt of the change. agree with me that the proposed A pre-action letter has been sent claim is not spurious, is clearly to the mayor, asking him to revoke arguable in law, and raises a matter his decision to impose the C-Charge of considerable public importance. on minicabs from April. The only way to determine whether In its letter, the IWGB says that your decision is unlawful is for this when Mr Khan was shadow justice claim to proceed. If costs are not secretary, he said: “If you are capped in this litigation it will serve, someone who wants to challenge in effect, as an absolute bar on our power, you are now scared to do so. ability to proceed with the claim.” 6 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

OBITUARY Police Blunder Clears RIP Douglas Shern It is with regret that the LTDA has learned of the death of Douglas Shern, Innocent Cabbie or Mr Shern as he was known to the thousands of cab drivers who sat before LEGAL said it was only when the officer in and a still photo from her body him at the old PCO where he was a the charge saw Mr Lambert there cam footage, showing a cab driver senior Knowledge examiner from 1976 An LTDA member wrongly accused that it dawned on her they had the holding a mobile phone. I thought until 1991. Mr Shern was a feared of using his mobile phone at the wrong man – I’m told her face was I’d better change my plea to guilty. character, his resemblance to the actor wheel has been vindicated after a a picture. She then spoke to the But, after closer inspection, I noticed Telly Savalas, who played the hard nose police blunder revealed they had prosecutor and they decided to offer the driver in the photo wasn’t New York cop ‘Kojak’ at the time, only the wrong man. no evidence.” me. Charlotte applied for the full served to enhance his tough guy image. David Lambert was stunned when Mr Lambert was approached by bodycam footage and it appeared to Doug, as he was known by all, was he received notice that he was going the officer while on the King’s Cross be someone else. an incredibly well liked and respected to be prosecuted for using his phone. rank at 9.30pm on May 6, 2018, who “I am of the opinion that, to get figure, especially in the world of But after weeks of investigation warned him he was being written up me to change my plea the officer had free masonry where his expertise by the LTDA’s legal team, and for using his phone. submitted a false statement, along was readily shared with Entered numerous meetings, it emerged At the time the cabbie said he had with a questionable still photo and Apprentices (new freemasons). that the officer had made a massive just picked up the phone to check video that wasn’t of me.” Prior to joining the PCO, Doug was blunder and they were trying to the battery cable was connected but Mr Lambert plans to make police officer, and for most of his career prosecute an innocent man. thought no more about the officer’s a complaint against the officer he was a sergeant in the dog section, The pictures police supplied claim because he had done nothing concerned. first based at Hammersmith (B&F) as evidence were of a completely wrong. He said: “Charlotte put forward Division where legend has it that it different taxi driver forcing the case He was shocked to receive the a good strategy to use it to my was Doug’s drug sniffer dog that was to be dropped. prosecution notice through the post advantage, which resulted in the responsible for Mick Jagger’s arrest. LTDA solicitor Charlotte and was worried because a guilty case being dropped. I cannot stress Doug finished his service at Rochester Collett said: “I put a lot of hard verdict would have put him on 12 enough the importance of having a Row in charge of the specialist Drugs work into this and it’s great that points – an instant ban. He decided first-class backup like this waiting and Explosives dog section. we got the right result for Mr to plead not guilty because he knew in the wings to help when a possible Doug will be missed by his many Lambert. However, I do think he was innocent driving ban comes knocking on friends, Mr Shern will be remembered it’s a terrible waste of everybody’s The cabbie, of Woodford Green, your door. The LTDA is the best in with respect by all the cabbies who had time and money, caused by police said: “Some weeks later I got a the business by far; don’t get caught the experience and privilege of being incompetence. The barrister in court copy of her statement against me without them.” (See letters, page 15.) tested by him.

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ur spotters love nothing more than hopping around London looking for thought it would be me.” A short while later our spotters managed to catch up with Steven unsuspecting LTDA members to hand out free goodies to. Lawson, who was pleased as punch when he was handed a £150 gift card simply for having This week they caught up with Issac Barakamfitiye, who was delighted when his diary on display. our spotters surprised him with a £150 All 4 One gift card just for having his Steven said: “That’s great, thanks a lot. What stroke of luck, that’s made my day. ” OLTDA diary on show in the windscreen of his cab. Each year we give away almost £8,000 to LTDA members, so the odds of coming up All 4 One cards can be spent on a huge array of items in dozens of stores, including trumps are pretty good. Debenhams, Argos, River Island and Marks and Spencer. Just make sure you have your LTDA membership diary on display and let us do the Issac said: “Fantastic. This will come in very handy. I’ve seen it in the paper but I never rest.

Isaac: “Fantastic.” Steven: “Made my day.” @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 2 April 2019 |||| TAXI 7 Furious Mayor Scraps CS11 NEWS IN BRIEF Bike Lanes CYCLEWAYS

Cycle Superhighway 11 plans have been Not So Super torn up after a long-running feud saw CYCLEWAYS Westminster Council claim victory over Transport for London in the High Court. Plans to rebrand London’s bike route Mayor Sadiq Khan and the regulator networks as simply Cycleways have have now confirmed that the controversial been panned by riders as a waste of plan “isn’t happening.” time and money. The renaming is partly A portion of the route at the Swiss aimed at removing negative connota- Cottage gyratory angered residents who tions of the word “Superhighway,” were backed by Westminster City Council which critics have allegedly used to in opposing it, saying they were not conjure visions of speeding cyclists properly consulted. mowing down pedestrians. In his judgment last year, Sir Ross Furious cyclists said that it highlight- Cranston said that Transport for London ed Mayor Sadiq Khan’s obsession with (TfL) had acted unlawfully in deciding branding and was nothing more than a to commence work on the Swiss Cottage bid to show he “had done something” section of the route before consents had Islington, to continue the London-wide be done to transform this intimidating, other than scrapping vital infrastructure been obtained for the whole route from cycling project. traffic-dominated and outdated junction.” plans. there into the West End, because it had Asked if it would be completing the Westminster’s Cllr Tim Mitchell It follows a recommendation last been planned as a single, continuous traffic modelling, and if the mayor’s said: “We want to do the best thing for year by the London Assembly Trans- route. comments meant CS11 was dead, residents and cyclists and remain willing port Committee to change the name Construction was set to start in July the authority’s head of programme to work with TfL on a way forward.” of “Cycle Superhighways to something 2018 when Westminster obtained an sponsorship, Nigel Hardy, said: “We are Campaigner Jessica Learmond-Criqui, more inclusive.” injunction and forced a judicial review hugely disappointed with the outcome of who opposed the route, said it was In the report, the committee said: where Judge Cranston criticised TfL and the legal action brought by Westminster. “fabulous news” for children in Camden “We have heard that the term Super- the mayor. “In the short term, we will re-focus our who she said would now not be affected highway creates the wrong impression The mayor has now told the Ham and efforts on areas in London where we can by increased pollution which may have for what this infrastructure is supposed High newspaper that “CS11 as it currently work together with boroughs to create been brought about by its construction. to deliver. stands isn’t happening. I am so angry at healthy streets and reduce danger to TfL confirmed it had spent £42,619 “It appears to emphasise cycling long the actions of Westminster Council.” people walking and cycling. Road danger fighting the court action and was in distances at high speed, which may not He is instead looking to work with at Swiss Cottage still needs to be reduced. discussion with Westminster over be the best way to attract a wider range other councils, including Camden and We will continue to look at what can legal fees. of inexperienced people to cycle.” 8 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

Check out an LPG cab at Taxi House and see if it’s the right move for you SHOULD YOU ANTHONY STREET OPT FOR LPG? STREETS AHEAD by 80%. It is agreed it means cabs would meet Euro to take advantage of this, you need to act fast. 6 vehicle standards and be Ultra Low Emission Zone I know that there is much uncertainty around – and compliant. understandable mistrust of our regulator - and many e have taken delivery of a newly converted There are currently two places offering LPG refit people are unsure which way to jump. But by my LPG cab this week and drivers can come and options. The Richmond Road Cab Centre which works calculations, even under the worst-case scenario of a 12- W have a look and even take it for a spin if you with the international company Gastech, a specialist year lifespan, LPG will run for 15 years and will be cost book an appointment in advance. engine development company, providing London cabbies effective. The LTDA recently had another LPG cab to test out with the option to convert their polluting diesel taxis to A solid refuelling infrastructure is now in place. There for a week and we all found it a solid cab to work in. run on LPG. are 150,000 vehicles running on autogas in the UK, with For most people, I’m sure the decision will come down Gastech introduced Euro 6 LPG emission compliant more than 65 LPG refuelling stations inside the M25 to value for money and the ease of being able to fill up, technology to the UK’s London TX2 taxi market in area. As such, LPG autogas could present an additional and as our options are virtually non-existent currently, 2017. option to ZEC, which is very young, has higher upfront this at least opens up another possibility other than the There is also Gascab and its backer Vehicle Repowering costs and may not meet the needs of some drivers due to TXe. Solutions Ltd, which have been approved to repower driving range and a lack of infrastructure. The change of heart by Mayor Sadiq Khan and both TX2 and TX4 models by TfL. Anyway, whether LPG is the right way for you, only Transport for London in supporting the technology has I’m told that there has been a growth in interest and you can decide, but it’s worth your consideration and if also been a major boost to LPG. there are limited spaces available for the conversion work you are interested in finding out more get in touch and TfL recently announced that the £2.5 million grant in the next month or so. Also, it you want to benefit book a visit to Woodfield Road. funding for repowering TX4 Euro 5 taxis to autogas from the full 15+5-year benefit that switching to LPG LPG conversion grants are available to drivers announced in the run up to Christmas has been doubled currently provides it might be an idea to book now, of eligible Euro 5 taxis. To express an interest in to £5 million. before the age limit consultation period. applying for an LPG conversion grant, please email In a further move of support for the fuel, TfL has Conversion costs around £12,000 and as things TaxiDelicensing@tfl.gov.uk. This will enable TfL to proposed that the repowered cabs will continue to be stand will get your cab an extra five years on the contact you about your application. Expression of interest licensed for 15 years, alongside the latest Euro 6 and current 15 – 20 years in total. TfL has confirmed does not constitute an application. u electric models. that this will be honoured even if the mayor’s It is now widely accepted that LPG – a cooking fuel ridiculous 12-year taxi life proposals get approved Anthony Street is an LTDA - helps reduce particulate matter by 99% and cut NOx following the upcoming consultation. If you want Executive Support Officer

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 2 April 2019 |||| TAXI 9

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Part of the Clean Vehicle Retrofit Accreditation Scheme (CVRAS) approved technology for Clean Air Zones 10 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA “Cabbies are the Carriers of the London Flame” PEOPLE He said: “We have the best trade in the world, but I worry that taxi drivers are an ‘endangered urban species’ like a human version of the white rhino. Cabbies are the BBC broadcaster and taxi trade supporter Robert Elms carriers of the London flame, they know this city and how has revealed how his latest book was inspired by the to navigate it. What they are doing in Tottenham Court kindness of cabbies. Road and other places where they’re banning cab drivers The BBC journalist begins London Made Us with a is terrible. We must preserve the greatest trade in world.” tale about the generous support of the taxi trade when his In the end, Elms is hopeful that London and the mum lay dying in hospital. cab trade that serves it will survive, even if its essential Speaking to TAXI about his latest paeon to the ever- character changes beyond recognition with each passing changing city he loves, the London born scribe also spoke generation. of his support for the taxi trade and its fight for survival. He says: “Each generation is made by London – Elms, who grew up in Notting Hill, also criticised yet each generation makes their own London. plans to ban cabbies, “the carriers of the London flame,” “My mum used to say Notting Hill was a slum, and from essential routes, such as Tottenham Court Road. families from London used to move to The book is billed as “a memoir of a shape-shifting suburbs like surrey, but now they want city,” and features a collection of weird and wonderful to come back to places like Brixton and stories Elms has collected throughout his life and radio Notting Hill. career. “My fear is – where will our kids live? The QPR supporter says: “My mum – a Londoner My children live in Camden, but they aren’t all her life - was dying and I was in the street taking a going to be able to afford to live there. breather when a black cab driver drove past and asked “But London plays the long game – things how my mum was. I told him she was dying, and he held go up and down and in the end the spirit my hand and said London was thinking of her. That’s the somehow survives. In the end, I’m kind of first story in the book because it got me thinking about optimistic but that doesn’t mean there aren’t the city and my relationship with it.” real threats to be aware of.” The speed with which London is changing appears to have accelerated in recent times, and Elms uses the book the opening gap of Tower Bridge and a grim tale of the to take stock of his place in it over the past 59 years. largest mass murder in Britain, which was committed by Win ‘London Made Us’ He adds: “I feel like it’s no longer my London – at that the arsonist John Thompson in Denmark Place in 1980, by Robert Elms time it was no longer my mum’s, hers was the city of the but which never attracted the coverage it deserved. Win one of the three copies of London Made Us 50s and 60s. At some point everybody’s London vanishes The father of three says: “It’s a book about change – by Robert Elms. because it changes so much. Now I’m in my 50s that and about trying to understand why London has meant Answer the following question: What football team means a lot of my city has gone. It’s like a kaleidoscope – so much to me. does Robert support? if you take your eye off it for a moment it’s gone.” “It’s not saying that everything was better then and is n 1.) Tottenham Hotspur Elms describes the book as “a memoir of me and my worse now. It’s a history book sort of, it’s a history of the n 2.) Chelsea family and also of my city.” parts that fall through the cracks in the pavement.” n 3.) QPR It features a range of stories including one about a The journalist sings the praises of the cab trade and has Email the answer, along with your name and bus driver who jumped a packed double-decker bus over never taken an Uber. address to [email protected] by April 8. Carry on Donating for Barbara CHARITY

The husband of British film legend Barbara Windsor is in training to take on the London Marathon for charity and is appealing for London cabbies to dig deep. Shoreditch-born Barbara was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease and Scott Mitchell and Eastenders cast members have teamed up to complete the gruelling 24 mile run in support of the Dementia Revolution, which aims to fund vital research into the disease. Scott, the son of a taxi driver, said: “Every time I get into a London taxi, Barbara played the role of the nearly five years. with dementia across the UK and the drivers are always so fond of Queen Vic publican, Peggy Mitchell The Dementia Revolution is there are still no effective treatments Barbara when we chat and say how for over 20 years but shot to fame a year-long charity of the year to slow, prevent or cure the diseases lovely she has been to them over the as a star of the Carry On films in campaign by the Alzheimer’s Society that cause it. The charities want years. Barbara has always used black the 60s, starring in nine, including and Alzheimer’s Research UK. to change this. To donate or find taxi’s all her life and has often been Carry on Doctor and Carry on Scott and his team mates have out more visit the website https:// vocal about it and helped the Taxi Camping. formed Barbara’s Revolutionaries uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ Drivers’ Charity for Children. I hope The 81-year-old was diagnosed and will be taking part in the fundraiser-display/showROFundrais that cabbies will support this great with Alzheimer’s disease in 2014 and marathon on April 21. erPage?userUrl=Barbarasrevolution campaign.” has been living with dementia for Around one million people live aries&pageUrl=1 @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 2 April 2019 |||| TAXI 11

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Make sure you have your say on the latest madness being proposed for our great city A NIGHTMARE ON LLOYD BALDWIN WAPPING HIGH STREET The council is proposing a series of traffic adjustments After the fight, Dean and his manager, Steve ON POINT in Wapping, including changes to junction layouts, Goodwin, said they will sit down and plan a route to improvements to pedestrian safety, which it will unveil later titles, with a possibility of an English title eliminator if in the year as part of its Love Your Neighbourhood project. a southern area fight can’t be agreed. He wants to get he dizzying array of remodelling plans appearing Some people have accused the council of trying to lead back into action in late May or early June. in London continues unabated. It’s getting to the the survey by highlighting response options to some of the T point where it feels like you could awake in the questions as “recommended.” Beware Road Restrictions morning and find that all forms of transport other than Whether that will mean the consultation is flawed is Watch out for the road restrictions in Hackney’s bicycles have been banned. Anyone who then tries to break another thing, but whatever happens drivers are urged to Lansdowne Way. Large numbers of tickets are being issued the new code is carted off to be water-boarded until they take part and have their say online. there. see sense and decide to hop on a bike or walk everywhere, Such is the disdain of some of these people for the views The restrictions are as follows: Westgate Street outside no matter whether they have an essential job or service to of taxi drivers, that I think it is wise to not declare how you London Fields Primary School is a pedestrian, cycle and provide or not. make your living on the form. local bus only zone between 8.30am-9.15am and 3.15pm- The latest madness is being floated by Tower Hamlets Feedback on the proposals can be given here survey until 4.00pm, Monday – Friday during school term-time. Council which has decided to create chaos by closing the Monday, April 8. A bus gate has been installed at the junction of Wapping loop to all but buses and cycles. Lansdowne Drive and Trederwen Road which only allows The council says it is reviewing the area in order to London Cabbie Closes local buses, pedestrians and cyclists through at 7am- provide a safer road environment “for the local community, in on Title Fight 10am and 3pm-7pm Monday to Saturday. pedestrians and cyclists.” Pugilistic taxi driver, Dean Richardson, downed There is no left turn into Richmond Road from Mare It says this is in response to complaints about rat- his opponent three times on his way to a third-round Street at 7am-10am and 3pm-7pm Monday to Saturday. running and the problems it causes in local streets, such as knockout victory against Croatia’s Silvije Kebet at The sign and the restrictions appear very quickly as soon noise and air pollution.” Since when has it been necessary York Hall earlier this month. as you come off the roundabout. You have been warned! to punish taxi drivers for the crimes of others? We are Nine straight victories (six knockouts) and no Feedback on the proposals can be given here: www. certainly not to blame for the issues there, or anywhere defeats, means Dean could be heading to a southern pclconsult.co.uk/projects/wapping-bus-gate/ u else for that matter. Not only that, but our trade is leading area title fight. the way in going green, taking diesel cabs off the road and Richardson looking to fight the winner of the fight Lloyd Baldwin is an LTDA going electric as fast we can. between Sean Robinson and Josh Ejakpovi. Executive Support Officer HALVEY ENGINEERING

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Mr Grayson, on further examining my injuries and LETTERS taking into account my considerable age, told my wife the she should call an ambulance. However, on calling for an ambulance she was told that there would be a CAB HERO STAR LETTER two hour wait. Mr Grayson told my wife that in his opinion OF THE YEAR I should go immediately to hospital. He then helped me and my wife into his cab and took us to King George Hospital, Ilford. On arrival, he refused any hired cab driver Darren Grayson to take my wife and myself from money for his fare and the considerable time spent attending to me. my home in Ilford to Sainsbury’s supermarket at Newbury Park at It turns out he is a skilled sports first aider and I would like to commend I around 2.30pm on March 3, him. I am 88 years of age and wife is 86, I’m sure that if it had not been for Unfortunately, I fell over on my front drive and struck my head against the his prompt action and considerable skill the outcome of my fall could have brick garden wall, causing injury to the side of my face, head and left knee. been a lot worse. I was very dazed by the fall. It was then that Mr Grayson came to my rescue. I was discharged from hospital after my injuries were attended to. If there He calmed my wife down and attended to my injuries. He also bathed and was a cab driver of the year award, Mr Grayson, should surely be at the top cleaned my head and face with gentleness and skill. He and a neighbour then of the list of candidates. u helped me onto a chair. David H Elias, Ilford

A STORY OF INVEST IN KINDNESS... US NOT UBER hailed a black cab from Marble Arch read that Uber wants to display bus and Tube to Victoria on Thursday, March 7 at times on the app. Sounds like a public service I around 3pm. Unfortunately, when I left, I I doesn’t it? What if Uber manipulated those accidentally left my small black rucksack behind times or didn’t display them so that customers on the seat. I noticed almost immediately but the were forced to use other means of transport, such cab had gone. We contacted TfL and I waited as Uber for example? That’s because some people there for 25 minutes just in case the driver take for granted that everything on the web became aware and came back. Fortunately, is true. If TfL goes into some sort of deal and though my address was in there, my house keys allows this, won’t that mean it’s more difficult weren’t, so I resigned myself to the fact that it to revoke a partner’s licence? It’s funny that we had quite possibly gone for good, along with my are part of London’s oldest transport system, iPad, mp3 player and several other valued items. yet we are seldom mentioned by TfL. When it On Friday morning, I was sitting on a train comes to the regulator listing us with transport when I had a call to say that my backpack had options for Londoners. Mayor Sadiq Khan seems been found sitting outside my front door in to be on board. It’s other plebs at the “shoebox” Ealing... with everything in it. There was no that aren’t. I will say it again. “The London Cab note with it so I can’t personally thank the kind is an icon and will never disappear.” No, it’s us, and honest person who put it there. I can only the well trained, experienced driver they want speculate as to whether it was the driver or a out. How will London cope with all those idiots passenger who happened to be coming this way following their satnavs, driving with undue care or lives nearby. I decided to post a message on and attention at the very least – it’s bad enough Facebook and write to TAXI in the hope that as it is. Absolute chaos? In a few years, driverless the person who returned it might see this and cars, using the same satnav technology, will be know how much I appreciate their actions. And, in the mix. It will be mini M25s everywhere. because I think it’s a wonderful reminder that EASY RUN HARD RUN So, come on TfL give us greater support. Let most people are inherently good. us into more bus lanes, environmental areas so Sue Powell u Langan’s Brasserie u Cricklewood Station we can set down where our public want. Keep to to traffic moving, not sitting in jams just so some Holiday Inn, Marylebone Arsenal Station councillors can get a “gong” for banning traffic FIRST CLASS from a small area. But they can’t stop pollution from moving. They would have to be God too do SUPPORT Do you have a gripe or praise? Contact us at that. Then some think they are. To the powers am writing to thank the LTDA legal team. 0207 121 0523 or email [email protected] that be; don’t do deals with Uber, Lyft or any I was prosecuted for a mobile phone offence other vested interest. We have invested years of I at King’s Cross station on May 20 last year. blood, sweat and tears to become the best in the I was really convinced I was innocent and world, invest in us not the likes of Uber etc. quickly made an appointment to see the LTDA’s Fred Hardy in-house solicitor Charlotte Collett. She agreed with me that I should enter a not guilty plea. I was very worried as this would put me on 12 points, meaning that I could be disqualified ON THE and be left unable to work. As time went on an evidential issue by the prosecution was identified ROAD AGAIN! and Charlotte put forward a good strategy to would like to thank all at the LTDA for their use to my advantage, which resulted in the prompt action for getting straight the nub case being dropped. I cannot stress enough the I of issue and getting my bill returned from importance of having a first class backup like the clutches of TfL. I’m now reinstated as a taxi this waiting in the wings to help when a possible driver thanks to the association’s efforts. I can driving ban comes knocking on your door. The say that after 40 years in the trade, the LTDA LTDA is the best in the business by far “don’t does exactly what it says on the tin in providing get caught without them. an excellent service. David Lambert, Woodford Green John Jack Or 16 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

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What is more important, a taxi that can turn on a sixpence or electric cabs we can aord? TIME TO DITCH THE PAUL BRENNAN TURNING CIRCLE?

TOP RANK TXe bracket (or higher) than that of the Nissan. This has led to calls for a look at the current TfL conditions of fitness, hen it was announced that especially those surrounding the turning from January 2018 all new circle. The current conditions of fitness W taxis would be required require a taxi to be able to turn in not to be Zero Emission Capable, it was less than 25ft and not more than 28ft. also mooted that we would have five For the Vito to achieve this it’s been retro compliant taxis to choose from. Well, fitted with rear wheel steering (RWS). the ZEC implementation came and unable to source I think its safe to say that the Achilles went, but as is often the case for the adequate stock heel of the Vito has historically been this trade we were left with only one option to go into RWS. of vehicle to buy, the TXe. production. More importantly for this trade So, what happened to the other four? Dynamo currently is the several thousands of One time cabbies’ favourite, the did release a pounds the RWS system costs and adds Metrocab, had a fair amount of legal statement on to the OTR price of a London spec Vito and financial problems. It was at the January 29, taxi. What we and the powers that be advanced stages of testing several 2019, stating it must ask ourselves is, is it now time to years ago, had TfL approval and the will be released in London this year, but the end of this year or early in the next. really consider what’s more important, patronage of the then Mayor, Boris I haven’t heard of an actual launch or So, the predicted 2020 launch of the a taxi than can turn on a sixpence, or Johnson. Lovers of bridges will know likely delivery date. E-Vito Taxi could very much be on the a pure electric zero emission taxi that that wasn’t always a good thing. There Karsan, a Turkish light commercial cards. This of course leads us to the all- drivers can actually afford? u were even several Metrocabs out on the vehicle manufacturing company also important question; how much? road being tested in the real world by expressed an interest in entering the There are no figures yet, but I think Paul Brennan, London cabbies. It got dragged to the market with its Concept V1. Karsan’s its safe to say it will be more in the LTDA Executive High Court by LEVC, which claimed V1 was one of three finalists, alongside the design infringed copyright, and the Ford Transit Connect and Nissan despite winning the case, it later faced NV200, for New York City’s Taxi of a winding up order over unpaid debts. Tomorrow, but lost out to the Nissan. Last year, the company claimed the Turning circle issues were expected to STAY IN THE KNOW taxi was still in the pipeline, despite be an issue with this one, but it was not having a factory to build it in. never really a serious contender. Unfortunately, it is feared its many Lastly, there is the Mercedes Vito. 15 year reminder you must notify LTPH immediately problems have killed the project stone Now, before I say anymore, I need to The London taxi 15 year age limit (0343 222 4444 / tph.enquiries dead. put my cards on the table and say I am refers to the cab’s ‘birthday’ @tfl.gov.uk) The Dynamo Nissan eNV200 Taxi a fan of the Mercedes taxi; in fact, my (in the log book) not its You may then continue has also been promised for what seems last two taxis have been Vito’s. plate date. working. A letter of an eternity. Whilst it’s commonly seen The rumour mill about the possibility For example: confirmation will be sent as the least London cab like of all the of an electric Vito has been slowly A cab passed when out to you by Transport options and a bit on the small side, an turning for many months. A launch in it is 14 years and 11 for London, prior to a on the road (OTR) price that’s £10,000 the spring or summer of next year has months old WILL be replacement identifier lower than the TXe, along with the been suggested. That mill has now gone granted a further 12 being processed. superior Nissan technology means into overdrive after Mercedes-Benz months of life. many drivers have pinned their hopes unveiled the all-new Concept EQV Cabs may be booked in for Shop a tout on it. electric MPV at the Geneva Motor testing in the normal way when Anyone who sees touting or any The launch date for the Nissan Show in March 2019. The production the plate has 28 days or less to run. other form of illegal cab-related has been pushed back several times. model should also be on show at the The cab can then work up to activity is urged to contact TfL The LTDA has met the company Frankfurt Motor Show in September the test date. If the plates are taken with the details. on numerous occasions and we are 2019. off with more than 28 days to Take down the registration assured that the launch is coming. The new vehicle, the first purely run, both the plates and the paper number and make a note of the Unfortunately, the difficulty in battery-electric MPV has a 100kWh licence must be surrendered to one date, time and location where obtaining the battery packs, as massive battery pack, which produces 248-miles of the six NSL inspection centres in incident took place. worldwide demand across the Nissan of real-world range. This should be and around London. Type “cab enforcement” into range, has meant Dynamo has been launched across Europe and the UK by The ‘unplated’ cab must then your internet search engine and not be worked, and at least one follow the links to the ‘report illegal week should be allowed before activity’ section of the TfL website. We must consider what’s more attempting to book the next NSL test, to allow the computerised DVLA reminder important, a taxi than can turn booking system to recognise that The photo card part of the driving the plates have been registered. licence lasts for 10 years and must on a sixpence, or a pure electric renewed after that period. The Lost/stolen identier licence becomes invalid if it is not zero emission cab that drivers can If your identifier is lost or stolen renewed with a current picture. actually aord? 18 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

By the time we have all gone electric there won’t be any roads left to drive down ACCESS CHRIS ACKRILL ALL AREAS?

ON THE ROAD closed off in 2015. Many people with limited mobility need to get around the many hospitals and clinics in the eople take taxis for many reasons: Bloomsbury area, and journeys have been for work, for pleasure; and made slower – and consequently more P sometimes when they have little expensive - for them. It’s become virtually choice. Sometimes people have luggage impossible to set down passengers in some they need to get across London to a rail streets, notably Tavistock Place. I’ve done a station or airport. People need to make fair amount of Taxicard work on ComCab hospital appointments, and a taxi is recently, but I wouldn’t relish trying to often chosen because it’s fully accessible. unload a wheelchair in this one-way, single Sometimes a cab is taken in an emergency. lane, thoroughfare. In late-2018, more It’s an uncomfortable feeling knowing roads were blocked off around Bloomsbury we sometimes thrive on the misfortune Square and more banned turns came in. of others. More positively, a ride in a cab Lord knows how difficult things could could be part of a holiday or a Christmas become accessing the UCH if Tottenham treat. The common denominator in every Court Road is closed to taxis. case is that the customer expects a door Many people with limited mobility rely to door service. This is our unique selling on taxis to get them around: you wouldn’t point. Increasingly, our USP has become believe how many Taxicard jobs involve impossible to deliver. West End theatres. It’s now impossible Over the last few years the number to load a wheelchair at the door of the of roads closed off to us has increased Lyceum Theatre. motor vehicles at certain times of the forces other folk aiming for the bridge to dramatically. The good work in making The Ned hotel in the City is inaccessible day. Hardly a day goes by without streets drive around the smaller streets around Russell Square two-way was undermined for most of the day. Last year, certain being closed off; some of them destined Tudor Street – when our progress isn’t when other parts of Bloomsbury were streets around Shoreditch were closed to never to be re-opened. The whole area hampered by giant cranes and orange around King’s Cross and St. Pancras barriers. Stations is a mess. Goodsway eastbound Al Fresco reminded us of the joys of St has been closed for several months, with Bride’s Street in a recent TAXI article. no indications when it might re-open. The Indeed, when I started out we used to be sudden closure at the top of Judd Street able to drive straight up St Bride’s Street COLTS CABS LTD has resulted in misery. There are no signs into Shoe Lane from just off Ludgate informing us of what’s happening, or Circus. St Bride’s Street is now closed 100 102 DUNBRIDGE STREET LONDON, E2 6JG whether it’ll ever re-open. Many vehicle to through traffic, except bikes. As I drivers think they can use Mabledon Place sit on the Goldman Sachs rank I watch to escape the misery, only to find they’re cycles scattering the suits as they quite DON’T DRIVE AROUND being forced to turn right. The authorities legally tear along the path alongside the should have allowed a left turn to alleviate office blocks. It’s painful watching lorries HOT AND BOTHERED this problem, but no; as usual, they are making deliveries and being forced to keeping vehicles on the roads as long as reverse out past the Boris Bike park, cab possible, thus adding to congestion and rank, motorcycle parking area, and huge AIR CONDITIONED TAXIS pollution. piles of building materials. It’s a miserable Things used to be so much easier. Allow road for anyone who has to access this ALWAYS AVAILABLE me to put on my psychedelic rose-tinted hazardous little road. specs as I reflect on the time when you Occasionally one-way streets are opened used to be able to drive straight down up to two-way traffic. Baker Street and COMPLETE WITH from Gresham Street on to Southwark Gloucester Place worked OK as one-way Bridge using King Street, Queen Street streets, but we now have to sit behind 24 - HOUR NATIONAL BREAKDOWN NUMBER and Queen Street Place. Southwark Bridge buses on a single lane and swerve in and is near enough impossible to access from out of right turn only lanes. It’s probably NO ACCIDENT EXCESS the west. Blackfriars is little better. The too early to provide a definitive assessment closure of Stonecutter Street causes bus of this system, but I daresay I could get congestion in Charterhouse Street, and 900 words out of it another time. FULL GARAGE FACILITIES Any useful road is ruined eventually. The customer The war on diesel ensures that the LONDON’S LARGEST AND NEWEST pollution side of things will eventually expects a door to lessen, but it’s going to be many years FLEET OF TAXIS before we’ve all gone electric. By that door service. This is time I don’t think there will be any roads our unique selling worth using anyway. u

TELEPHONE point. Increasingly, n Visit Chris’s website here: pubcat.co our USP has become 020 7613 0684 | 020 7613 0630 Chris Ackrill is a Taxi Driver impossible to deliver and former Knowledge Examiner @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 2 April 2019 |||| TAXI 19

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NEWS IN BRIEF Language Tests 12 Thefts a Day on the Tube

Tube services account for Plans Delayed Again almost half of all thefts on trains nationwide, according to the latest TRADE data. A total of 4,448 thefts occurred The full introduction of plans to make on Transport for London trains minicab drivers prove they have a in 2018, up 25% on the 3,500 reasonable understanding of the English incidents the previous year. language to a reasonable standard have TfL services overall saw a 27% been pushed back once again. rise, to 4,877 thefts. The requirement for all new PHV Regular underground users driver applicants and renewing drivers to service were eight times more show they have passed a GCSE level test likely to be pickpocketed than by April was introduced by TFL. other rail passenger in the UK – a The Government has now published rate of more than 12 thefts each separate draft statutory guidance which said: “After listening to the private hire relevant GCSE, were due to come into day. also provides for licensing authorities to industry we are also giving further force in July last year. Thefts on TfL’s network have test applicants’ oral and written English consideration to reviewing how we test Complaints by the Licensed Private soared 55% since 2015, according language skills. applicants’ English language skills.” Hire Car Association led to the proposal to the data obtained in a Freedom The London deadline to provide The introduction of tests has faced being delayed. of Information request. evidence by next month has been extended a difficult path to becoming law, the Uber initially planned to challenge the TfL compliance director Siwan until September 30, 2020, to give TfL minicab association saying it would force new rules but eventually backed down Hayward said: “We take every time to consider the Government’s many drivers out of work. after changes were made to the proposal. crime very seriously, including the guidance and ensure consistent standards. The new rules forcing drivers to pay It was also awaiting the appeal over increase in thefts reported on the Graham Robinson, Interim London £180 for a written essay and speaking TfL’s decision not renew its operator’s London Underground and some Taxi and Private Hire General Manager, test, unless they could prove they had the licence in 2017. other services.” Human Drivers “Endangered” TECHNOLOGY 3. FORKLIFT DRIVERS: Automated forklifts are already commercially Professional drivers could become available, meaning that 88,000 an endangered species thanks to workers employed in the UK may driverless vehicles, according to new be working on borrowed time. research. 4. BUS DRIVERS: Mobility firm Navya Automation of driving jobs could tested driverless buses in East trigger large-scale redundancies as London and Heathrow Airport in early as 2020, the study for price 2017. Drivers can expect an 89% comparison site MoneySuperMarket chance of being replaced in the claims. years to come. Food delivery drivers, waste disposal 5. TAXI AND MINICAB DRIVERS: workers and even minicab and taxi As with bus drivers, there have drivers could be hit by the rapidly been moves to automate private developing technology, it says. transport services. Addison Lee Tom Flack, of MoneySuperMarket says it intends to have automated said: “Automation will bring massive vehicles deployed in London by changes across the whole of society 2021. In Tokyo, meanwhile, an Speak Out on CS4 Changes and those who drive for a living may autonomous taxi service began n ROADS Creating new straight across crossings be among the first to feel its effects. operation in August, transporting for pedestrians on Southwark Park As many as 1.2m jobs face a 67% passengers along a set route. TfL is consulting on several changes to Road and West Lane as well as or higher probability of automation, Critics have said these claims the Cycle Superhighway 4 scheme in improving the desire line for the representing up to £23.9bn in annual are wildly exaggerated and some Southwark. staggered crossing on Jamaica Road salaries. experts believe full automation is The regulator carried out a public n Providing new right turn pockets for 1. FOOD DELIVERY DRIVERS: decades away. consultation on their proposals to transform cyclists to improve cycle access to CS4 The takeaway delivery industry is However, this research says that parts of the borough as part of CS4. from Southwark Park Road and West likely to see replacements across of professional drivers, only driving Responses raised a series of issues and Lane. the board, with a 98% chance instructors have little to fear. a further consultation on the junction of TfL believes that traffic using Southwark of automation. The 29,000 employed in Southwark Park Road with Jamaica Road Park Road to access Rotherhithe Tunnel 2. WASTE DISPOSAL WORKERS: the UK having only a 13% has been launched. would now be displaced away from the Binmen face a 93% chance of being replaced. The revisions include: A200 towards alternative river crossings. likelihood of having Jobs in the emer- n Banning the right turn out of Local traffic wishing to travel east from their roles replaced gency services are Southwark Park Road on to Jamaica Southwark Park Road will be able to access by a machine. Volvo also at less risk, with Road for all traffic except buses, taxis Jamaica Road via Clements Road and St showcased a prototype police facing only a and cyclists. James’s Road. bin lorry that uses 10% chance of full- n Permitting the ahead movement for all The consultation is open until April 2, drones to identify nearby scale replacement, traffic from West Lane to improve local 2019; have your say here at consultations. bins – this wouldn’t ambulance drivers access tfl.gov.uk/roads/southwark-park-road/ completely replace the 25%, and fire engine need for human workers. operators 42%. 22 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 2 April 2019 |||| TAXI 23

We are helping to keep drivers on the road, but many contact us too late about intended prosecutions CAN YOU STAY ON THE CHARLOTTE COLLETT ROAD WITH 12 POINTS? LEGAL EAGLE was that banning him from driving would have an unfairly longer have to drive around looking over your shoulder with detrimental effect on her life, leaving her isolated and at an your points totted up to 15 or more. increased risk of ill health. f a notice to prosecute you for a speed related offence Examples of Exceptional Hardship include… Totting Up Explained flops onto your matt and you’re close to reaching the n Loss of employment – cabbies need their I’m sure all members are aware of the dreaded totting I dreaded dozen points, contact the LTDA immediately. driving licence to work up process, and that if you’re on nine points and being There are ways to keep you on the road, one of which n Financial dependents would have their standard of prosecuted for a further endorsable offence, you will is asking for exceptional hardship to be taken into living significantly reduced if a member was unable to automatically be subject to court proceedings. The same consideration, but time is crucial. financially support, say, a child at university, or support applies if you’re on six or more points and get prosecuted We have had some excellent results for members in this their partner who is unable to work for an offence carrying six or more points. The minimum area recently. Simply, it means appealing to magistrates for n Impact on the health and safety of others; if the cabbie disqualification imposed for totting up, when exceptional clemency because a driving ban would have devastating has caring responsibilities for elderly or disabled relatives hardship is not accepted by the court, is… effect on the driver or their dependents. These types of cases and the licence is essential to this assistance n At least six months if no disqualifications of 56 days or take months to build. Sometimes drivers ignore penalties, n Mortgage default or other financial loss caused by the more have been imposed previously within the three thinking “I’ll deal with it later,” or hope they will go away: loss of income years prior to the date of the most recent offence for they won’t. The longer we have to build a winnable case on n The threat of bankruptcy which points were imposed exceptional hardship grounds the better. Interestingly, we had one driver who got to know a n At least one year if one disqualification of 56 days or Hardship cases are not merely about the difficulties a neighbour while we were already building his exceptional more has been imposed within three years driver faces from being disqualified, but are often more hardship case. They became friends and the member began n Two years if more than one disqualification of 56 days about the wider reaching consequences to him and his taking him to hospital appointments. This became central to or more has been imposed within three years family caused by a possible ban of six months or more. If the hardship case that kept our man on the road. The ability to make a strong case for exceptional somebody’s child can’t get to school, or a disabled relative Exceptional hardship cases can be argued for the hardship comes from getting the case early. It’s best to is unable to attend vital hospital appointments, these are same driver again within a three-year period, but slow down and avoid needing our services at all, but if you serious issues that a magistrate must take into consideration. completely different reasons must be used. do need us, be quick off the mark. u One LTDA member we assisted was granted a reprieve Magistrates sometimes give a short ban such as a few days because he often drove his elderly mum to the shops, or weeks. Bizarrely, this is can actually be a bonus because Charlotte Collett, evening activities and hospital appointments. Our case after the ban is served the points reduce to zero, and you no LTDA solicitor 24 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 2 April 2019 |||| TAXI 25 Cashless Society is Looming NEWS IN BRIEF BUSINESS

Cash payments could make up just 10% of all transactions in the next 15 years, according to a new review. Debit cards have already overtaken cash as the most popular payment Great Escape form, while Britons increasingly turn to digital methods. Anniversary The change could leave more than Discount eight million UK adults struggling to cope in a “cashless society,” according London is hosting the UK’s largest to the report which claims country’s anniversary event to commemorate “cash infrastructure” is “on the verge of 75 years since the real-life Great collapse.” Escape took place and taxi drivers With bank branches and ATMs members can get a 10% discount. closing at an increasing rate, the Access But while the costs were largely fixed, solely use cash for all their day-to-day Historian and presenter Dan to Cash Review says companies and income was declining quickly. transactions. Snow will host the event at the organisations providing “essential” As a result, it said, “we have a cash However, the amount of cash Hammersmith Apollo on March services should be forced to ensure infrastructure which is fast becoming removed from ATMs is declining 24. The production will feature consumers can continue to pay by cash. unsustainable”. dramatically and Which? estimates iconic war-time music from the Cash machine network Link funded The report added: “Some of these that cash machines around the UK are D-Day Darlings and interviews the independent study which fears that companies may consider exiting the closing at a rate of 300 a month. with Stalag Luft III veterans. The 17% of the UK population could be market as its profitability declines – Nicky Morgan MP, chair of the night culminates in a gala screening isolated by the looming cashless society leading to the risk of disorderly collapse Commons Treasury committee, of the re-released 1963 cult film and a shortage of services. … without an effective wholesale cash welcomed the report, saying that “the starring Steve McQueen in stunning The report urges government, infrastructure, ATMs won’t get filled, simple truth is that leaving the future of 4K. LTDA members can get a regulators and banks to “act now or risk cash deposits won’t get counted, and we cash to be determined by market forces 10% discount on seats by visiting leaving millions behind.” won’t trust the value of money.” will not work.” the website www.eventim.co.uk/ The bill for running the UK’s cash The UK is “not ready” to go cashless, Jonathan Reynolds, the shadow the-great-escape-with-dan-snow- infrastructure – from ATMs to cash- according to the report’s authors. economic secretary to the Treasury, said london-tickets and typing TGE75 sorting centres – was about £5bn a year, Despite the huge growth of Labour agreed with the conclusions of into the promotion bar. paid for predominantly by banks (and, contactless and mobile payments the report and called for an open urgent To find out more visit the website ultimately, consumers), said the report. there remains about 2.2 million who consultation into its recommendations. www.thegreatescape75.co.uk

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In this example, 6p plus VAT per excess mile. If the vehicle is in good condition (fair wear and tear accepted) and has not exceeded the maximum agreed mileage you will have nothing further to pay. 2. Pay the optional final payment and keep the vehicle. Or 3. Part exchange the vehicle subject to settlement of your existing finance agreement; new finance agreements are subject to status. All prices inclusive of VAT. Two, three or four year plans are also available. Finance is provided by Black Horse Taxi Finance a trading style of Black Horse Ltd, St William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff CF10 5BH. Credit is subject to status and is only available to UK residents aged 18 and over. ** Fuel savings calculations are based on real world fuel consumption and the current average fuel prices, assuming that driver travels 120 miles per day, five days each week, in a previous model such as the TX4 Euro 6. For the full illustration of fuel saving figure calculations please refer to levc.com/tx-cost-comparison. *** The LEVC Service Plan covers the parts and labour costs associated with maintaining your TX. It is redeemable at any participating LEVC Authorised Repairer and includes all scheduled routine maintenance items, including inspection and adjustment, fluid and filter renewal and replacement of wear components based on mileage and time based service intervals. Service Plans can be customised to individual requirements based on annual mileage and plan duration. The advertised example refers to the total cost of five scheduled services (0 – 125,000 miles) at a discounted price of £1,624.99, including a £20 plus VAT administration fee and with an estimated annual mileage of 25,000 miles. Initial payment of £29.83, followed by 54 monthly payments of £29.54 (equivalent to a weekly payment of £6.25). This is not a finance agreement and is not subject to any interest charges. Three years 120,000 miles comprehensive vehicle / five years unlimited mileage drive battery warranties included. Excludes Meter, credit card equipment and any local authority fees. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 2 April 2019 |||| TAXI 27 Bus Service is a “killing machine” NEWS IN BRIEF Green Delivery TRANSPORT Hub Scheme Buses kill or seriously injure four Unveiled people each week in London, according to the latest figures. Micro-distribution centres are to Transport for London and Mayor be created by Transport for London Sadiq Khan have faced calls to improve in a bid to boost the number of safety by the GMB union, after it was sustainable deliveries made around revealed that 45 people were killed and the city. 1,017 seriously injured over five years. Delivery company DPD has The worst borough for incidents is opened an all-electric depot on TfL Westminster, where there were 350 land, which will be served by two people seriously injured or killed in the 7.5tonne lorries. A fleet of 10 electric same period, followed by Lambeth with vans and eight micro-vehicles will 260 and Southwark at 200. complete the final deliveries. A meeting held by campaign group The campaign is backed by London from the past managers who designed Similar schemes are to be rolled LondonBusWatch at a London Labour Bus Watch, set up by Tom Kearney, the outsourced killing machine that out across the city, which it is hoped Party conference at the weekend called who survived being hit by a “bendy TfL presides over. Nothing less than will make it easier for couriers and on Mr Khan to make the safe operation bus” in Oxford Street in 2009. fundamental reform of the bus system’s other firms to use electric vehicles, of outsourced bus operators TfL’s top He said: “I have campaigned over contract performance incentives to bikes and other environmentally priority. these years for a safer public bus include safety is acceptable.” friendly transport modes to complete It follows claims that bus drivers are system, and that can only happen when TfL’s director of bus operations, deliveries. being pressured to drive too fast to bus driver working conditions are Claire Mann, said: “We are introducing The latest strategy unveiled by keep up with punctuality targets and improved and TfL and its for-profit a range of additional and enhanced TfL, include offering more click unsafe working practices caused by bus contractors are compelled to be safety requirements for buses and are and collect points at Tube stations contractors. transparent about and accountable for developing innovative driver training and encouraging more businesses to It wants TfL and its outsourced the operational safety performance of focused on the safety of vulnerable provide green delivery slots, where operators to improve their safety London’s surface transport fleet.” road users. shoppers are offered delivery times in record and support a bus drivers’ Since 2014, 4,736 people have been “Our bus operators know that which drivers are already in their area. Bill of Rights, which include access injured in collisions involving TfL safety is our top priority and continue It aims to reduce the number of to clean, serviced toilet and rest buses – roughly 2.5 people per day. to work with us towards our aim of lorries and vans entering central facilities on all routes, and the right to Warren Kenny, GMB regional making London’s roads free from London during peak times by 10% drive without having to answer radio secretary, said: “Sadiq Khan has to get collision-based deaths and serious by 2026 in a bid to boost safety and messages and texts from controllers. a grip on the problem he inherited injuries.” cut pollution.

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 Vehicle registration certiˆcate, logbook or new  Valid MoT certiˆcate (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 certiˆcate,  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 certiˆcate (where applicable) online or at a post o–ce. If a vehicle is not recorded as taxed, NSL will accept an online application/  Modiˆcation 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 certiˆcate (not a copy) – properly a–xed speciˆcation in the luggage compartment (see table below)

VEHICLE MAKE / MODEL TYRE SIZE Mercedes Vito Euro 4 195/65 R 16 100/915T or 104/102T Mercedes Vito Euro 5 195/65 R 16 100/915T or 104/102T Fairway (declared max speed of 130 km/h) 175 R 16 N TX1 (declared speed of 130 km/h) 175 R 16 N TXII (declared speed of 147 km/h) 175 R 16 Q TXII (declared speed of 147 km/h) 175 R 16 Q TX4 (declared speed of 147 km/h) 175 R 16 Q 28 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 2 April 2019 |||| TAXI 29

Cabbies using the free chargepoints for PHVs are putting cash before the trade FRATERNISING ALF TOWNSEND WITH THE ENEMY!

TAXI TALK I counted at least half-a-dozen last weekend, squatting on their filthy blankets and simply holding up their hand as you ome cabbies never cease to amaze me, went past. But there’s one regular, an English especially some of the motor-mouths, bloke in his 60s, who stands by the door of S and there’s a fair sprinkling of them Tesco’s on his crutches and quite blatantly at Heathrow! They are always prattling on says, “can you spare a pound sir?” He only about Uber and the minicabs killing our trade needs about 20 mugs every day to make a and what are we doing about it – even though decent living! I hark back to the bobbies on the majority of them don’t belong to a trade their beat who would quietly move these organisation. When you question them about people on! But there’s not even a nick in why haven’t joined the LTDA, or one of the Hampstead now, let alone bobbies! other outfits, they normally make a ridiculous Another scam making the rounds was told excuse and give you the brush off. A classic to me by a friendly elderly lady who lives example of their bizarre thinking surfaces with nearby. She said there was a bashing on the some of the cabbies who work at Heathrow with who secured them a job! These cabbies are not EMPTY: door one morning recently and when she electric cabs. When the seven chargers were free remotely concerned that these people they are The most expensive opened it she was greeted by a young woman for an introductory period there were queues fraternising with are slowly but surely nicking chargepoint in the UK? clutching a screaming baby! She cried out, “I of cabs night and day. Rightly or wrongly they our work at Heathrow! They are saving a few need to get my baby to hospital but I haven’t believed they could follow the cab which entered quid on the chargers and apparently that’s all got any money for a taxi.” My neighbour the Feeder Park in front of them. This could that matters! replied that she didn’t keep any money in the have worked with a few electric cabs, but there As I was writing this, I’m told that word house, to which the woman replied, “I can were dozens of them trying to feed in when their has got through to Ground Control about the go down to the cash point with you.” Now, group went out. This caused some spats and hordes of electric taxis using the chargers in the my neighbour is no dummy, and knew it was accusations from other drivers that they were PHV Park. It seems they have brought forward a scam and said, before closing the door, “if jumping the queue! the end of the freebie date of the PHV chargers you can make it to the cash machine, the Then suddenly, the chargers were deserted. from June to the end of March! I can’t help hospital is only a couple of minutes away, The reason being that a hefty price of seven quid thinking of a line from an old romantic song – goodbye!” per charge had been slapped on them. This, I am tweaking some words which goes, “what now informed, is the most expensive in the UK and my bruv, now that it’s over, you must live for ‘Baldrick and Me!’ almost double the price of chargers in Central another day!” I got a phone call recently from a lady Producer London, which cost four quid! asking if I would like to take part in a Channel However, some shrewd nuts with the electric Hampstead Village Beggars Five historical documentary series about The cabs discovered that the chargers in the PHV Please excuse my corny opening gambit, but UK in the Victorian period. Apparently, there’s a Park, just along the road by the nick, were free it really does beggar belief about the number segment in the series about the history of the taxi until next June. It doesn’t matter to them one of beggars that arrive at the weekend onto shelters and the temperance societies formed by iota that they are fraternising with Uber and the rural streets of Hampstead Village. the cabbies. My name was recommended because minicab drivers who are waiting for jobs from It’s almost as if they have just passed “the I had written extensively about it in one of my the terminals, essentially nicking our work Beggar’s Knowledge” and been directed to books, The Black Cab Story. Hosting the series – either legally or illegally – because minicabs leafy Hampstead where the residents are will be Tony Robinson – now Sir Tony, a good old always used to have a spotter on the terminals, mostly well-heeled! East-ender who was born and bred in Homerton. He achieved his popularity playing Baldrick in Blackadder, the funny little man in specs who was always saying, “I have a cunning plan.” Since then he has hosted many popular historical series on TV, including Time Team, The Worst Jobs in History and is presently hosting Around the World by Train. It will be interesting to meet him on set, I won’t know whether to call him “Sir,” “Tony,” or even “Robbo!” So yes, it could be fun–and will add a few quid to my empty pockets! I’ve done a few bits and pieces on TV for documentaries over the years and the cameras don’t faze me. In fact, when I prattle on about the trade I love, the director But there’s usually makes cutting motions to his neck! not even Gimme Shelter a nick in I noticed from the bus recently that the George shelter is now open and that Chris is Hampstead back serving the punters. I haven’t had the now, let opportunity to speak to him yet, but I’m told he’s on good form considering. alone Anyhow, welcome back Chris and take it bobbies!” easy! u 30 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

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 2 April 2019 |||| TAXI 31

Addison Lee is a Sweatshop say Drivers NEWS IN BRIEF REGIONAL Uber avoids self-drive Minicab drivers staged a go-slow protest through Luton over “sweatshop crash charges conditions” imposed on them by Addison Uber is to escape criminal charges Lee. Dozens of drivers brought the over deadly self-driving car crash town to a standstill to highlight a series in the US last year. of issues, including bullying, pay and An investigation into the conditions. incident found that Uber is not The protest called by the United Private liable for the death of 49-year-old Hire Drivers (UPHD) union, which is also Elaine Herzberg in Arizona. threatening to sue the mayor over plans to having a responsibility as a licensing by the rank due to a lack of prayer space The car’s human backup driver, make minicab drivers pay the Congestion authority to ensure drivers like myself are provision, despite a commitment by Rafaela Vasquez, could still face Charge in London. not mistreated. Addison Lee to provide this. charges. The cars gathered at Luton roundabout “It is a disgrace how Addison Lee treat The UPHD wants the company to: County attorney Sheila Sullivan before moving over to Luton Council their workers, and it is vital that Luton u Reduce commission to 20% Polk said: “After a very thorough on George Street, before demonstrating Council use their licensing powers and u Withdraw vehicle rental price review of all evidence presented, outside the council office, where they intervene to ensure our worker rights are increase of £20pw this office has determined that blocked George Street. protected.” u Pay drivers for time spent there is no basis for criminal The union wants Luton Council to Addison Lee drivers often work 70 taking company cars for liability for the Uber corporation.” use the licensing powers to enforce legal hours or more per week earn little more maintenance and inspections A police video from inside the workers’ rights of drivers, which were than £1,000, but after £270 in vehicle u End workplace bullying car shows that Ms Vasquez was confirmed by an employment tribunal. rent and 35% commission is deducted by u Provide a suitable place of distracted and watching a TV The company’s drivers say their take home Addison Lee, along with other associated worship for drivers show on her phone around the pay has fallen below minimum wage. costs such as fuel, drivers take home only u Respect the legal worker time of the “avoidable” accident Sohail Choudhary, Chair of the Luton around £225 per week in pay. rights of drivers in March. The incident prompted UPHD branch, said: “Drivers such as Minicab drivers are also protesting UPHD recently proposes to start a Uber to halt its self-driving car myself working for Addison Lee at Luton against the indignity of their treatment by judicial review over Mayor Sadiq Khan’s tests in Phoenix, Pittsburgh, San Airport have been reduced to working Addison Lee. plans to make minicab drivers pay the Francisco and Toronto, although in sweatshop conditions and yet we can The UPHD, a branch of the £11.50 C-Charge next month. They say it some tests have now resumed. barely scrape by. Independent Workers Union of Great targets lower paid ethnic minority drivers Police also said that the crash “The council is the ultimate owner of Britain’s (IWGB), reports frequent cases and is discriminatory. was “deemed entirely avoidable” if Luton airport, benefiting from a lucrative of workplace bullying. It says that the Addison Lee’s American owners, the Vasquez had been paying attention contract that gives Addison Lee exclusive majority Muslim workforce has to take Carlyle Group, are plotting the sale of the while the car was operating rights to operate at the airport, while their daily prayers outside on the tarmac company for around £300million. autonomously.

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The mayor has decreed that we can use four station loos, but should you take your own seat? “WHEN YOU AL FRESCO GOTTA GO...” TWO FINGERS me nervous. Damp walls, limp, rectangular sheets of The Sun AND unfettered light switches and a wooden seat. If you were REALLY electricty were a potentially unlucky, you’d get no paper, no seat, e are truly fortunate lethal combination; but, as the and a barnet-full of confetti-like flaked to have “on our saying goes, ”if you gotta go, you whitewash from the slipstream of the W side” an enlightened gotta go!” fast train to Yarmouth rushing eastward mayor. Sadiq Khan recently Within the toilet confines, overhead. Still, there were times when it issued a relief-giving bulletin the outer cubicle was home to was inordinately worthwhile. promising a three month trial the wash basin. It was beyond In the past, we’ve been accused by giving taxi drivers access to description as such. It was merely snotty hotels of nicking toilet paper toilets in Tube stations. Last a receptacle for ingrained oil and and soiling the wash basins. Well, if month we were given access to mildew, embellished with the my experiences are anything to go by, a loos at Leicester Square, Oxford dust of a dozen trains an hour precedent has already been set. If there Circus, Victoria and Baker hammering across the dim, dank, were cab drivers willing enough to nick Street. The odds on it being arched brickwork above. Another the very basics from a subterranean canned after the three month door led into the lavatory cubicle. Victorian WC underneath the GNER trial are pretty short if my If you were lucky, you’d got railway line in Bethnal Green, then experience is anything to go by. there on a good day. That is, a as sure as Thomas Crapper promoted Each of these stations has a day when neither the lavatory flushing, they would be more than rest rank nearby, but the release paper nor the toilet seat had been capable of nicking the Andrex out of warns that taxis must not be ‘alf-inched. Seriously! Under lock the holder (and the holder as well) left unattended on working and key, not only would people AND servicing an auto gearbox in the taxi ranks or at locations where using the toilet, steal the toilet washbasins into the bargain. So, don’t parking is not permitted. Upon roll, they would steal the wooden forget guys, before you collect your arrival, “taxi drivers must toilet seat, too! I couldn’t help badge and bill and passport, wash your report to the Tube station’s control last resort, I’d drive down to Dunbridge but wonder what they got for that on hands - after nicking the toilet. It’s room. Here, drivers will be required Street, screech to a halt at Coley Allen’s eBay? not just hygienic, it gets rid of your to sign in, present identification kiosk (there was almost always someone If you were unlucky, you’d get fingerprints. u (which may include a licence with there to tend to the fleet 24/7) and ask photographic identification) when for the key to the karzi. Hesitantly, the requested and undertake a short bloke in the kiosk would look me up safety briefing.” and down, sizing me up to see I was IN ASSOCIATION WITH We will be expected to deposit trustworthy enough, before handing me our badges with station staff for the key. SIMRO LONDON the duration of their visit, ensuring The size of the key wouldn’t have that station staff know when drivers disgraced the Ceremony of the Keys at TAXI RENTALS are in the station in the event of an the Tower of London. It was attached emergency, and presumably so they by a length of frayed string to a block OVERHAULS, SERVICING, BODYWORK can trace the guilty at a later date. of wood on which someone had jokingly Drivers will then be directed to the written “Executive Toilet.” If that wasn’t AND NON FAULT SPECIALIST staff toilets. enough to constitute the ultimate in British KITEMARK Approved Body Shop Afterwards, “drivers will report bowel control, then trying to unlock the back to the station control room, sign padlock which secured the bolt on the out and collect their badge.” lavatory door to a thick chain, whilst trying not to be “premature,” nothing TX2s & TX4s Isn’t that a weight was. If it was an emergency, the length of o your mind? the process had the potential for disaster In the not so good old days, when and a trip to the dry cleaners beckoned. AVAILABLE TO railway arches were grimy, rat infested, If you had the luxury of time on your Victorian labyrinths, full of greasy hands, you would carefully insert the key, puddles and human detritus, where unlock the rusty padlock, methodically RENT NOW! equally grimy cab mechanics laboured unravel the length of chain, and open under neon lights and you’d get more the rickety wood slat door, but not grease on your clothing than the nipples before running your hand up the damp, on a fulcrum pin, if I was “caught short” distemper-flaking wall in search of the during the night time and desperate, as a light switch. This exercise alone made “ Under lock and key, not only would people 07534 125 454 CALL using the toilet, steal the toilet roll, they NOW would steal the wooden toilet seat, too! 0207 372 2222 I couldn’t help but wonder what they got for that on eBay?” 52 Iverson Road London NW6 2QX 34 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 2 April 2019 |||| TAXI 35

The new member of Meg’s quiz team gets o to a yer before putting his foot in it I’VE STARTED, MUSHER MEG SO I’LL FINISH He said it didn’t have a winning ring to it. The man had served, we were in first place. The quiz was ours to lose. LICENSED TO CHAT barely sat down before he suggested we dump Smarticus Mr Meg had redeemed himself by answering questions to I’m Not a Gynaecologist, but I’ll Take a Look’. As he on the periodic table and an astrophysics puzzler about was the only man in among seven women (and it was how many galaxies there are in the observable universe. ere’s a quiz question for you – “Should I take Mr International Women’s Day) that joke was very badly He was being an actual useful member of team Smarticus. Meg to our Church Quiz again?” received. It was all going so well. Until…… H If your answer was “No” “Nay” or “Never” Undeterred, he piped up with “I thought this Was The final scores were announced, and we were tied you get one point. Speed Dating.” He read the team silence and said, in first place with the team that always beat us, Agatha Our parish has a fund-raising quiz twice a year. I am “Oh, we’re not here for a laugh, then?” Quiztie. Our fate would be decided on a single tie break part of a ladies team and we call ourselves Smarticus. “No, we’re bloody not!” Elizabeth (our history expert) question. It works like this - the first person to stand up And always come second. Every time we come sodding growled. “We’re here to win”. and shout out the answer gets an overall win for their second. Damn second. FREAKING second. The questions began, and even though there was team. Before the tiebreaker both teams were given five Remember, it’s not the winning, it’s the taking part wine and Kettle Crisps the atmosphere in the parish minutes to huddle and talk tactics. Stupid really, because that matters, #whatalotofcobblers. hall was just like an exam room. Everyone wanted the only strategy is to stand up fast and shout the answer Us laydees have our speciality subjects. Mine is to win, win, win. loud and clear. London and geography, Cilla’s is TV, radio and See if you could answer these questions: Drum Roll. The moment came. There was total silence musicals, Marge’s is sport…and so on. 1.) What was Elton John’s first in the room and then the quizmaster spoke, “Name a On Saturday night our science expert Geraldine USA Number 1? musician or singer with the letter Q in their name”. cried off because she had tickets to a lecture about 2.) What is Woody Harrelson’s To my delight Mr Meg shot out of his chair like a how the auto sub long ranges are contributing to middle name? rocket and screamed, “Q Jackman!” and then he pumped global ocean observations in mapping 3.) What gift did the Queen and his fist and did a victory dance that involved the deep-sea floor. Like you do on a Prince Phillip receive from Gambia his neck, bum and elbows. Saturday night. for baby Prince Andrew? Oh, the shame. Oh, the lost opportunity. We were obviously desperate because (Clue: the same word appears in the Smarticus took a vote and we (including me) have we substituted Geraldine for Mr Meg: answer to two of the above questions.) issued Mr Meg with a lifetime ban. u disaster alert. We were rocking it. At half time First, he tried to change our team name. when the ploughman’s supper was 36 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

Competition for your cash is hot, so don’t be afraid to ask retailers for a discount — they can only say no SAVE MONEY EMMA LUNN BY HAGGLING MONEY MATTERS Warehouse, John Lewis and Tesco were the top three Sky, Virgin Media and BT Broadband among the most retailers consumers had success haggling with. popular providers to haggle with. There’s more to haggling than just turning up at a “Service providers reserve their best deals for new hen you think of haggling, Moroccan souks store and demanding a better deal – you need to prepare customers in a bid to steal business from competitors. or Indian markets may be the first examples for negotiations by being armed with the prices and deals If you continue with your contract without questioning W to spring to mind. But big savings are on on offer from other retailers. That way, you can play rival the price you’re paying, a provider is rarely going to offer in the UK on everything from mobile phone and brands off against each other and force them to fight it offer you something better,” says Bullock, “Saying you’re broadband contracts to electrical items, furniture and car out for your business. Other tactics including keeping paying too much, or a rival’s deals are better, will put breakdown cover if you can do a bit of bartering yourself. your cool, being chatty and friendly, pointing out your provider at risk of losing business Cashback website TopCashback.co.uk has compiled a imperfections, and offering to pay in cash. and will usually result in them haggling index, which shows how consumers feel about Timing is crucial too. Try haggling miraculously finding you a better art of getting money off, as well as the best companies to at quieter times – for example, deal.” barter with. The 2019 report shows an 11% increase in during the week instead of a busy More research, this time by the number of consumers who feel determined to haggle, Saturday. Haggling towards the end MoneySavingExpert.com, found that and a 15% decrease in those who feel awkward while of a financial year or quarter can be a car breakdown companies and insurers haggling, compared to 2018. good tactic as a retailer may need to drive were some of the best companies to Adam Bullock, director of TopCashback.co.uk, sales, even at a lower price. Bear in mind that haggle with. Site users reported impressive says: “While seeing consumers be bolder and more while some salespeople may not have the authority to success rates on price with RAC breakdown, fearless with their haggling attempts is great, our report give you a monetary discount, they may be able to throw AA breakdown and Admiral Insurance. shows only 56% are actively putting their skills to use. something in for free instead. Holidaymakers may also find it possible to A sale at a lower price is still a sale for retailers. And If your contract for broadband, digital TV or a mobile barter over the price of a package holiday or cruise. Tour with brands finding it harder to attract shoppers to phone is expiring, it’s worth asking if your provider operators put together packages while travel agents the high street, and therefore must offer better deals, will do a deal to stop you going elsewhere. Ultimately, sell them, so it’s often possible to find exactly the same haggling is becoming much easier. Shoppers need to companies want your business and you’d be surprised at holiday on sale at vastly different prices in different travel be brave and try their luck – the worst that could what they are prepared to do to keep you as a customer. agents. Playing agents off against one another can be a happen is a retailer says no.” The survey found that, on average, consumers save good negotiating tool. Some may offer airport transfers, The TopCashback study found that Carphone £235 each year by bartering with service providers, with room upgrades or drinks deals rather than a discount. u

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omplete our crossword puzzle and be in with a chance to win £50! Send your entry to: Crossword 439, Taxi, Taxi House, 11 Woodfield Road, W9 2BA C before March 31. The first name out of the proverbial hat wins the cash! u ACROSS: DOWN: 1 Repeat (4) 1 Costless Tenancy (4, 4) 3 Formal event (5, 3) 2 Accent (5) 9 Waterfall Home (7) 4 Communicate (6) 10 Anger (5) 5 Dried coconut kernels (5) 11 Untrue (5) 6 Mexican spirit (7) 12 Still (6) 7 Wide-mouthed jug (4) 14 Surviving (6) 8 Glossy cotton fabric (6) 16 African Antelope (6) 13 Karl Marx devotees (8) CROSSWORD #439 19 Digging tool (6) 15 Jailer (7) WINNER: ISSUE 437 — G Patterson, Acton 21 Attach (5) 17 Tiny (6) 24 Nude (5) ACROSS: DOWN: 18 Dotage 3, 3) 7 Warren, 8 Legend, 9 Glib, 1 Ballad, 2 Grub, 3 Inželd, 25 Not ventilated (7) 20 Tapered block (5) 10 Ignition, 11 Ideally, 13 Strew, 4 Agitated, 6 Encore, 12 Annoying, 15 Bring, 17 Padding, 20 Abeyance 16 Rabble, 18 Notify, 19 Unity, 26 Allergy (3, 5) 22 New (5) 21 Feta, 22 Planet, 23 Run o 21 Font 27 That (4) 23 Measurement (4)

Have a go at this PUZZLER medium level Sudoku puzzle. Fill the grid SUDOKU so that every row, every column and every 3x3 Just for box contains four of my teeth. They weren’t decayed, just the numbers OVERHEARD exhausted. I was advised to exercise more. fun... 1-9 just once So, every morning I do 50 double-chin ups. Followed by a 10-minute brisk waddle. It ately I’ve been watching my weight… hasn’t helped. I’m still the same height laying go up. It sort of snacked up on me. I’m down as I am standing up. I decided on taking L so fat my passport photo now has to be a six-week diet. Every sixth week I went on continued on the next page. When I want a diet. They were the worst afternoons of my life. shower, I have to go to a car wash. I was once I tried a Harley Street diet clinic. The doctor a barrel of fun. Now I’m just a barrel. When told me to open my mouth and say “Oink.” I went on jury duty the other eleven had to But he was sympathetic to my problem. He wait outside. My weight’s increased so much, I said all I needed to give up were just three make Sumo wrestlers look anorexic. I recently things. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. It was had an artist paint my portrait. Instead of the only way I could get to be my old sylph a brush he used a roller. I no longer have a again. As far as food is concerned, he said I firm stomach. The firm’s taken on too many could help myself by just not helping myself. partners. In my present condition I could easily He suggested I give up reading things, such play Belly the Kid. My thighs are in separate as menus. He was right, of course. Whenever post codes. The fact is, I’m living beyond my a waiter handed me a menu and asked what I seams, exceeding the feed limit. My trouser zip wanted, I’d say “page two.” I spent a fortune has more tension than the whole of the Middle on food. It’s listed as my expanse account. I East. I’ve come to realise it’s not the hours I think I’ve finally found the answer. I’m joining spend at the dining table, it’s the seconds. Last Appetites Anonymous. They have a great Christmas, I ate a whole turkey on my own. system. Whenever a member feels hungry, all And that was just for hors d’oeuvres. People he has to do is phone them up and they send thought I was schizophrenic, because I was someone over to eat his meals for him. u Puzzles © 2018 Puzzler Media Ltd.www.puzzler.com eating for two. The dentist had to remove —Brad Ashton 40 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

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PPI - DON’T LEAVE IT TOO LATE

TIME IS RUNNING OUT - DEADLINE 29TH AUGUST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: “I’ve had loans and credit cards in the past but I don’t have A huge number of people still haven’t investigated whether they them anymore. Can you still help?” have been mis-sold PPI, and are due a refund. With a deadline now set for 29th August 2019 — Don’t delay act today. Yes, so long as you can remember who you borrowed from we will apply to the lenders at no cost to you, and ask them to send us At Active Credit Reclaim we realise that some people are a little details of all loans and credit cards you have held with them. daunted by the thought of dealing with a claim themselves or “I’m pretty certain I’ve always refused this type of insurance. they are just too busy, or cannot find any paperwork. If you have Is it still worth investigation?” EVER had a credit card, loan, store card or HP you may have been mis-sold this insurance. Yes, many people tell us that they don’t think they have been sold PPI in the past, but often we will find evidence that clients weren't We charge no upfront fees whatsoever, you will only pay our aware of. success fee of 20% +VAT of refund if we win your claim, if we (PPI was more actively sold from the late 1980’s until 2010). do not win you owe us nothing. To find out more call us on: 01707 649 665 or 01707 649 688 Email: [email protected] or go to activecreditreclaim.co.uk and request a call back Active Credit Reclaim: 45a The Broadway, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, Herts, EN6 2HZ Regulated by the Claims Management Regulator with regards to Claims Management Activities. No: CRM40830 Prostate Quarter Page 111mmx 141mm:Prostate A4 ad 15/10/2012 16:22 Page 1 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, Lee, SE12 @TheLTDA u Astral Café, Regency Place, SW1 TREATING PROSTATE u Bubbles Car Wash, E2 Managing Editor u C & S Taxis, Dunbridge Street, E2 Steve Still T: 0207 121 0523 u Cabsurance, Seven Kings E: [email protected] u Camber eld Taxi Services CANCER QUESTIONS The Massett File Richard Massett u Computer Cab, Mitre Way, W12 International News Wim Faber u Coney Allen, Dunbridge Street, E1 Two Fingers Al Fresco u CP Beehive Service Station, Taxi Talk Alf Townsend & ANSWERS Beehive Lane, Gants Hill u Cricklewood Carriers, Cricklewood Overheard Brad Ashton For a FREE copy of this booklet please contact us at the address below. u Dial A Cab, City Road, N1 Licensed to Chat Musher Meg u Edgware Station Rank u Euston Station Rank Produced by u G & L Taxis, Crayford Road, N7 Century One Publishing Ltd This booklet has two aims: u Globe Transmissions, Alban Row,27-31 Verulam Road Cudworth Street, E1 • to help you become better u The Ham, Brentford St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4DG. informed about prostate cancer TTreatingreattingg u Heathrow Airport Canteen T: 01727 893 894, F: 01727 893 895 and its treatment. pprosprostprostate statettate e u Hexagon Garage, Lukin Street, E1 E: [email protected] canccancercer • to guide you in the decisions you annd answers u Jet Garage, Clipstone Street, W1 www.centuryonepublishing.uk Questions and answers u Knowledge Centre, Caledonian Road will make about your care with u KPM, Hemming Street, E1 Advertising Sales Executive your doctor. u London City Airport Canteen Jack Green T: 01727 739 196 It cannot replace talking to u LP Motors, Dunbridge Street, E2 E: [email protected] u Martin Cordell, E3 and Stanmore your GP or hospital doctor. u Paddington Station Rank 






If you can help us by raising funds for 
  Art Editor 

 

  

u Putney Bridge Taxis, The Arches, All rights reserved. No our research or to make a donation Putney Bridge Station, SW6 Alan Booth part of this publication may be reproduced, stored please contact us at the address below. u Richmond Road Taxi Centre, E8 in a retrieval system or Advert Coordinator transmitted by any means u Safewise Supermarket, Harrow electronic, mechanical or Caitlyn Hobbs by photocopying without Your support is vital! u South Bank Service Station, prior permission of the Great Su‘olk Street, SE1 publishers. The views and Printed by opinions expressed in u TAXI HOUSE, W9 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 the publisher should adver- Waterloo Station tisements not appear in the u Wimbledon Station Rank requested issue(s). While Prostate Cancer Research Centre • 67 Riding House Street • London • W1W 7EJ the publisher will take u WizAnn Knowledge School, every care to ensure ac- Tel: 020 7679 9366 • email [email protected] • www.prostate-cancer-research.org.uk curacy, no liability can be Watts Grove, E3 accepted for loss or dam- age resulting from errors. @TheLTDA |||| www.ltda.co.uk 2 April 2019 |||| TAXI 43 44 TAXI |||| 2 April 2019 www.ltda.co.uk |||| @TheLTDA

CLASSIFIED

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CABS FOR RENT CENTURY ONE PUBLISHING IS THE UK’S BRIGHTEST AWARD-WINNING CONTRACT PUBLISHING AND ADVERTISING SALES AGENCY. To plan your ad campaign Jack Green in Taxi magazine contact: t: 01727 739 196 e: [email protected] w: www.centuryonepublishing.uk

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LINAGE

l TXIIs & TX4s TO RENT, GOOD l SILVER VITO 59 PLATE. l GOOD, CLEAN TXIs & TXIIs ACCOUNTANTS reliable service, Waterloo Garage Pump & RWS fault. Requires wanted, top prices paid, quick SE1, Call Andy – 07964 943659 overhaul. Not de-commissioned. viewing, North London based, l CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Fitted spare wheel carrier. £1450. Graham- 07435 562759 specialising in the taxi trade. l TX4s FOR HIRE, NO ADS, full 078403 30264. Romford. [email protected] Accounts and tax returns £312inc backup, RAC cover, 07980 288333 VAT. Call 0208 360 1446 l TXII GOLD 03. RED COLOUR. l ALL CABS WANTED, WE l TX4 09 £180PW & MERCEDES Comes with sports seats/Stereo. come to you, top prices paid, Vito 2017 £150pw. 4pm-1am Great runner. 1 owner. Very good cash/ bank transfer, instant AIR CONDITIONING Changeover Orsett. Garages in condition. 340,000miles. £900. decision, finance settled, non- east London. Contact John Bargain. North London runners or sell & rent back, Taxi’s l MOBILE AUTO AIR 07956 354671. 07466 815050 available to rent. call 07956 317300 conditioning service and repair l l for taxis, Telephone Nick on 07785 TXIIs/TX4s, ROMFORD TX4 EURO 5 STYLE. 14 PLATE. l ALL CABS WANTED. 900006 7 days based, from £175pw, 24-hour 68,000miles. 1 years plate. £16,000. We come to you. Any condition backup, own garage, body shop, 07931 923252 quick decision. Instant cash paid. 01708 347288/07715 512263 07763 699767. CABS FOR RENT l VITO 62 PLATE. 95,000 MILES. l TXIIs & TX4s FOR RENT, FULL Good condition. 11- month plate. l GOOD QUALITY l A - ALL TX4s SILVER SPEC. back up, Family garage, Old Kent £16,000. Tel 07725 150852 De-commissioned TX4s required. £170pw. Full back up with a spare Road based 0207 358 1272 Top prices guaranteed. cab. Call on 07595 920029 l 09 TX4 SILVER. GOOD reliable 07787 513629 l CHEAP RELIABLE CABS cab. Service History. 1 owner. l ALL MERCEDES VITOS TO to rent full & part-time 24/hr 219,000miles. 12 months plate. Ill rent. Full back up. Prices starting recovery eastlondon e15 call alfie health forces sale. £11,950. from 200pw. 07508 977592 07590 203043 07876 065212 REG FOR SALE l l A TX4 FROM £200PW. BASED l 60 PLATE BLACK VITO TO l 59 PLATE VITO, LOW mileage CAB171S £795ONO, PRU360 in Kingsbury. NW London. RAC rent, £180pw, full backup, based 12 months plate £10,950. £2495ono, P449ANT £595ono, Backup. Spare Cab. 0208 200 8488. in East London 07703 784079 07956 211478 DVLA fees been paid, quick 07956 422658 transfer. Tel 01684 577766, email l TX4 12 PLATE. JUST [email protected] l ALL VITOS FROM £190PW overhauled. Chean. Black Cab No CABS WANTED TX4 from £190pw + TXII from ads £210pw. Trevor 07717 854342 £160pw, also part time welcome, l AAA- CABS WANTED, ANY HOLIDAYS all taxis well maintained, first year, any condition, top prices 2 weeks 50% discount, full back CABS FOR SALE paid 013 2266 9081/07836 250222 l SWANAGE, DORSET. up with spare cab, taxi recovery Room only holiday with spares on board, 24hr garage l TX4 BLACK 64 REG. Plated l ALL TXIs & RETIRING TXIIs accommodation close to town based in E2, pay at any HSBC/ until November. immaculate wanted, instant decision - cash centre & sea front. Parking Internet Banking, call Andy condition. FSH. 105,000miles. paid. Tel: 07973 335739 or available. Ring for details – 07970 915778 £23,000ono. Jason 07983 875527 01253 407500 07765 535715

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