Taxi licence revoked after illegal tobacco link in Cleveland

Driver Linked to Illegal Tobacco Sales

A taxi driver in Redcar and Cleveland has had their license revoked following links to the sale of illegal tobacco and vape products. According to Redcar and Cleveland Council, trading standards officials provided information connecting the driver to illegal sales from retail premises prior to their time as a licensed driver.

"We do not have any evidence to suggest that any sale took place while the person was a licensed driver," a council spokesperson confirmed.

Council's Licensing Authority and Standards

Taxi drivers can lose their license for criminal convictions or if a council deems them unsuitable to hold one. The council emphasized that they rely on the "fit and proper" standard when evaluating drivers, even in the absence of a criminal record. The driver in question held a private hire license for only four months before it was revoked.

Enhanced Criminal Record Checks Introduced

In 2022, Redcar and Cleveland Council tightened regulations by requiring taxi drivers to undergo Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks every six months, replacing the previous three-year interval. This policy ensures closer monitoring of drivers and strengthens public safety.

Broader Context and Similar Cases

A similar incident occurred in Stockton, where a taxi driver lost their license after allegations of sexual harassment and grooming. Although police did not pursue charges, the council deemed the individual unsuitable to continue as a driver based on their behavior during questioning.

Consequences of Licence Revocation

Taxi drivers who lose their license, such as in cases involving illegal tobacco sales, face significant consequences. Their details are added to a national register, preventing them from obtaining a license elsewhere. Drivers do, however, have the right to appeal these decisions in a magistrate’s court.