Petition Grows as Workington Taxi Driver Fights Licence Denial

A petition has been launched to reinstate the taxi licence of former Workington Town councillor and taxi driver Gerard Glaister after Cumberland Council denied his application. Mr. Glaister, who previously ran Ged’s Taxis, had his licence revoked in August 2024 following allegations regarding offensive social media posts.

The decision to deny his reinstatement was based on the council's assessment that he was not a "fit and proper" person under Section 59(1)(a) of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976. The petition has gathered 161 signatures since its launch earlier this week, as Mr. Glaister pursues an appeal through the magistrates' court. His case comes amid broader concerns about taxi licensing regulations, as seen in a recent protest by taxi drivers in Wolverhampton over strict new rules.

Allegations and Legal Proceedings

Mr. Glaister was arrested by Cumbria Police on August 8, 2024, after being accused of posting content on Facebook that was described as "Islamophobic" and "homophobic." Court documents stated that the material was considered "of an indecent or grossly offensive nature for the purpose of causing distress or anxiety."

His case was reviewed following riots that took place in the summer of 2024, during what a judge described as a "period of heightened sensitivity." However, legal proceedings were discontinued on September 13, with the prosecution deciding not to pursue the matter further.

At Carlisle Crown Court, the judge advised Mr. Glaister:

"You should take great care in future. Posting material on the internet can — and does — constitute criminal offences and can have serious repercussions."

Despite the case being discontinued and Mr. Glaister holding no criminal convictions, Cumberland Council refused his request to have his taxi licence reinstated.

Council Decision and Industry Impact

During a regulatory sub-committee meeting on February 24, the council ruled that Mr. Glaister’s past conduct on social media demonstrated a pattern of "discriminatory and highly offensive content" over an extended period. The council determined that he did not meet the "fit and proper" criteria required for taxi drivers, leading to the rejection of his application.

This decision highlights the importance of professional conduct in the taxi industry, where drivers are expected to uphold public trust. Taxi licensing authorities have a responsibility to ensure that those granted licences can provide safe and inclusive service to passengers. Incidents related to discrimination or offensive behavior—whether online or offline—are increasingly being considered in licensing decisions to maintain industry standards.

Mr. Glaister, a taxi driver since 2001, has launched an appeal against the council’s decision, arguing that he believes in the principle of being "innocent until proven guilty" and that his lack of convictions should allow him to return to his profession.

The outcome of his appeal and the growing support for the petition may influence further discussions on the balance between free speech, past conduct, and professional licensing within the taxi industry.