Decision details

The Licensing Team Leader presented a report to consider an application for a Private Hire/Hackney Carriage (Joint) Driver Licence.  She provided background information and key considerations, as set out in the report, and explained that the meeting was required to enable the panel to determine whether the applicant was a fit and proper person to hold such a Licence.  The report detailed the contents of the application, together with information on the applicant’s prior convictions and the Council’s adopted guidance on dealing with such matters.

In response to questions raised by the panel, the applicant provided clarification on a number of issues relating to the nature and background of the past convictions and spoke about positive lifestyle changes made since that time.  The applicant was also invited to make further representations in support of the application, which were noted.

When the Chairman was satisfied that all relevant questions had been raised, he requested that the applicant and the Licensing Team Leader leave the meeting whilst the panel reached a decision.

5.1       Determination of the Application

Following consideration of the application including both written and verbal representations, the panel was of the view that the applicant was a fit and proper person within the meaning of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 to hold a Private Hire/Hackney Carriage (Joint) Drivers Licence.  The panel felt that the offences were historic and that there was no pattern of offending.  The panel was also satisfied that there was no conflict with the Council’s Licensing Policy.

The Licensing Team Leader and the applicant were invited to return so that the meeting could be reconvened.

5.2       Decision

The Chairman advised that the panel considered the applicant to be a fit and proper person to hold a Private Hire/Hackney Carriage (Joint) Drivers Licence.

RESOLVED:

That the applicant was a fit and proper person to hold a Private Hire/Hackney Carriage Driver’s Licence under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 and that the Licence be granted.