MSP encourages contributions to taxi licencing consultation

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur has written to taxi and private car hire firms in Orkney to make them aware of a Scottish Government consultation into tightening the licencing regulations.

In particular, Mr McArthur is keen to understand the likely impact any changes in the rules might have on taxi and car hire provision in the islands.

Mr McArthur said: “The Scottish Government has launched this consultation in response to concerns about the influence of criminality within parts of the taxi and private car hire trade.  These concerns may be legitimate, though largely I suspect, in relation to operations in the Central Belt.

“SNP Ministers must avoid increasing the burden for small businesses in the rest of Scotland, particularly rural and island areas, in order to address a Central Belt issue.  That is why I want to hear directly from those in Orkney likely to be affected by the proposed changes to licensing regulations.

“I would encourage anyone in Orkney who has an interest in this to submit a response to the consultation, or get in touch with my constituency office for more information.  It is likely that many of the responses will come from councils, the police and large taxi firms.  It is vital, however, that the voice of smaller operators is also heard loud and clear.”