Statement on proposed strike by taxi and private hire drivers in Leeds this weekend

Councillor Debra Coupar, Leeds City Council's deputy leader and executive member for resources, said:

“We have been made aware of proposed strike action this Saturday 29 January by taxi and private hire drivers and would like to make anyone who may be impacted by the potential disruption aware of the situation. 

“The proposed strike action is from 10pm this Saturday night until 6am the following morning.  It is not clear how many taxi and private hire drivers will participate in the strike action.  The council recognises everyone’s right to take strike action but it is sensible for us to ensure people are aware to help minimise any potential disruption to people’s travel arrangements.

“If you are out or working this Saturday night and would normally rely on taxi or private hire transport to get home please ensure you consider alternative travel arrangements after 10pm.

“We have asked the taxi and private hire trade organisations to reconsider their planned action, and continue their dialogue with us over the proposed accumulation of minor motoring convictions criterion of the suitability policy in order to achieve a positive outcome for all parties.”  

Notes to editors:

All West Yorkshire and York councils ran a joint public consultation from November 2018 to January 2019 with proposals for a joint Suitability and Convictions Policy across the region. The results of that consultation were reported back to all councils with all councils adopting the policy during 2019/2020. The taxi and private hire licensing trade raised some concerns regarding the proposals for how minor motoring convictions would be considered, and councillors in Leeds agreed to pause the implementation of that part of the suitability policy to review the proposals and agree a further period of consultation.

A working group of councillors in Leeds heard representations from the trade and other stakeholders and considered revised proposals for minor motoring convictions which the licensing committee and executive board agreed to consult upon. The consultation ran from 22 October to 15 November 2021 and the council received 2,214 responses from the trade and public. The results of the consultation are currently being analysed and will be reported to the licensing committee and executive board for a decision.

Throughout the consultation, councillors have met with trade representatives to listen to their views and ensure they are kept informed of progress. The council is committed to consultation at all levels and will always be prepared to listen and reply to any areas of concern raised by the trade in a constructive manner.