London Banter - View Single Post

Roland Perry · October 5th 15, 08:17 AM posted to uk.transport.london

In message , at 17:21:04
on Sun, 4 Oct 2015, remarked:

One of the main complaints in London is that they lurk around places
where people might want a cab, and then presumably get the customer to
book them on the spot. That's the reason for the 5-minute timeout
proposed in the consultation.

Well, that's an example of the unlicensed plying for hire.

How come? If the booking is recorded by the hire operator it isn't illegal
plying for hire.

The issue is the anti-social behaviour which accompanies the drivers
touting for business on the streets, even if it just about qualifies as
a "booking" once logged.

For example, what if there was a chap with a sandwich board outside
Cambridge station advertising private hire cars, and when someone
approached him they are handed a mobile phone with the company on
speed-dial.

"Hello, dodgy-cabs Cambridge Station, can I help you"
"Yes I need to get to the Guildhall"
"OK, cross the road and you'll find your pre-booked car waiting on the
double yellow lines, look for the driver with his hand in the air".
--
Roland Perry