Have your say on cabbie language skills

COUNCIL chiefs are proposing new rules for cabbies to be tested on their ability to speak English.

Oldham Council is seeking views from users of private hire and Hackney carriage vehicles on the verbal communication policy for licensed drivers.

It follows complaints from members of the public and growing concerns over language barriers.

Currently new applicants are required to take a driven and two written tests to see if they are suitable to become a licensed driver.

This is a locally-set policy — each council can by law set its own standards.

But the council wants to hear the views of residents as to whether new applicants, where English is not their first language, should undertake a written, verbal or combined test.

Aside from any internal measure the council may introduce, there are prescribed training courses available to assist those requiring further support.

Councillor Fida Hussain, chairman of the Licensing Committee, said: “Oldham Council is committed to ensuring all licensed drivers deliver a high standard of service, especially when it comes to communicating with residents.

“If you have a view on our proposals to introduce a further communications test then I would urge you to take part in this consultation exercise as your views will be taken onboard.”

A decision on any policy change will be made at the March meeting of the Licensing Committee. Those wishing to contribute to the consultation should email their views to licensing@oldham.gov.uk by Friday, February 10.