The GMB Union, Yorkshire’s trade union for taxi and private hire drivers, has reached an agreement with Wakefield Council to build a new consultation framework for drivers, that will enable both the trade and the Council to review all licensing policy and improve services across the City.  

There has been a huge amount of concern amongst drivers about the new licensing suitability and conviction policy that came into force across the entire Yorkshire region as the pandemic kicked in.  

The drivers and trade representatives did not feel the effects of this policy until recently when business began to pick up.  

Changes saw much stricter punishments for drivers for minor offences and although the drivers accepted the need to improve passenger safety there was a lot of criticism about the lack of consultation throughout West Yorkshire and the disproportionate and unfair way sanctions have been set out. 

Peter Davies, Senior Organiser for the GMB Union, said:  

“Our members are always keen to improve taxi services and especially when it comes to the safety of their passengers. 

 “That’s why we have set out a new taxi charter to help us work with councils to achieve that in a constructive way. 

 “But all improvements must be agreed, driver input is vital in that process, as is the publics of course.  

 “That's been somewhat lacking in the past 3 years and this new agreement goes a long way to putting that right. 

 “I want to extend my appreciation to Wakefield Council as they become the first local authority to endorse the charter and agree full policy reviews this year, something the GMB are now asking for in all Yorkshire local authorities.”