Decision details

                   Mr Charles Oakes, representing the Hackney Drivers Association and Bury Private Hire Association questioned why a number of complaints he had submitted had not been responded to.

                   The Head of Service (Trading Standards and Licencing) explained to Mr Oakes and the Panel that a large volume of complaints were being sent through various pathways which was confusing and unhelpful in terms of making sure responses are provided. An undertaking was given to provide Mr Oakes with the appropriate pathway and Mr Oakes was asked to provide a detailed list of those he believed remain outstanding. The Head of Legal Services highlighted the importance of clarifying whether things were being raised as formal complaints through the Complaints Procedure, general requests for information or Freedom of Information requests.

                   Mr Mahmood raised issues around inconsistencies with MOT testing and referred to individual cases which had been failed as a result of tinted glass and dust on the engine. The Licensing Unit Manager explained that he had already received a complaint on this issue. It was reported that the complaint had been acknowledged and would be responded to.

                   Mr Sajad raised the issue of Bury only having one MOT Station, which is currently out of use, with drivers having to travel to Bolton. In response the Head of Service (Trading Standards and Licencing) explained that following a fire at Bradley Fold MOT Station, as the station cannot be used, alternative provision was identified within 48 hours at a Station 4 miles away, with the capacity to test 50 vehicles per week. It was reported that MOT provision would be audited and reported back to this Panel.

                   In response to a question concerning MOT Certificates not being issued, the Licensing Unit Manager explained that licensed vehicles did not require an MOT but are issued with a certificate of compliance that exempts them from requiring an MOT Certificate. He explained this has additional requirements over and above an MOT and drivers should ensure their vehicles are prepared for such tests in advance. He further explained that re-test fees vary according to the number of faults a vehicle fails on.