Taxi driver loses licence in Northampton after court ruling

A taxi driver in West Northamptonshire, Mohammed Alam, has had his private hire licence revoked after failing to inform authorities about a driving conviction. Alam, who operated in the region, was convicted for plying for hire—accepting passengers without a pre-booking—and driving without insurance. Despite legal requirements, he did not declare these offences to West Northamptonshire Council, leading to the council's decision to revoke his licence. Similar cases have been reported, including a private hire driver who lost their licence after misleading the council, highlighting the strict enforcement of regulations governing taxi and private hire operators.

History of Complaints and Council’s Decision

West Northamptonshire Council reported that Alam had a history of licensing and driving complaints. One particularly alarming incident involved a passenger who, frightened by Alam driving at 100 mph, called their relatives from the taxi to express their love, fearing for their safety.

Authorities also found that Alam misled the council regarding legal proceedings in a neighbouring authority. His failure to disclose the conviction and his history of unsafe driving contributed to the council's decision to revoke his licence.

Legal Proceedings and Court Ruling

Alam appealed the council’s decision to Northampton Magistrates’ Court, which upheld the revocation. He then escalated the appeal to Northampton Crown Court, where Her Honour Judge Adrienne Lucking ruled against him.

Adrienne Lucking stated:

"Alam was not found to be an honest witness, and his explanation that he was planning to tell the council about his convictions once his penalty points were added to his licence was highly implausible."

Alam was ordered to pay £1,500 in legal costs, in addition to £140 from his previous appeal.

Council’s Emphasis on Passenger Safety

Councillor Matt Golby, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health, and Regulatory Services, reinforced the importance of safety in taxi services:

"The safety of residents and passengers who use private-hire and taxi services is paramount to us, and the majority of drivers conduct themselves to the highest standards. Our officers work hard to ensure that these standards are met, and we are pleased that the Crown Court has upheld our decision."