Councillor Addis was elected as Chairman for the meeting.

To consider a report on a Hackney Carriage Driver whose Medical Certificate expired on 12 November 2012.

Members considered a report on the suspension of a Torbay Council Licensed Driver whose Medical Certificate expired on 12 November 2012.

Written Representations:

None received

Oral Representations received from:

Members of the Licensing Sub-Committee noted that despite being notified of the hearing, the Licensed Driver failed to attend. It was therefore agreed that to continue the hearing in her absence was in the public interest to do so.

Decision:

That Miss Whates’ Drivers Licence be revoked, as in accordance with section 61(1) of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 because Members could not be satisfied that she remained a fit and proper person to hold such a licence.  In addition Members of the Sub-Committee resolved that this revocation shall have immediate effect in the interest of public safety, as in accordance with 61(2B) of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976.

Reason for Decision:

Having carefully considered the Licensing Sub-Committee report, the attached appendices and the oral Representation by the Council’s Environmental Health Manager (Commercial), Members resolved that Miss Whates had been given sufficient opportunity to provide the necessary Medical Certificate, having been advised in writing on two separate occasions.  Despite this, Members noted to date that Miss Whates has still not provided this certificate.

In concluding, Members noted that Miss Whates had not taken the opportunity to appear before them to explain her circumstances and therefore felt that they were left with no option but to revoke her Driver’s Licence to ensure public safety.