Wednesday March 6 | 2019
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Times OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS
MUSIC MAN: Forum founder Jason Dormon, pictured with wife Isobel, has been awarded a top honour for services to the Tunbridge Wells community See page 5
Minister considers idea of CCTV in cabs to protect vulnerable passengers Times’ investigation uncovered trend in driver abuse By Richard Williams Newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk
THE idea of installing CCTV in taxis is being considered in an effort to provide greater protection for women and other vulnerable individuals. The move is part of a package of initiatives being put forward by Wealden MP Nus Ghani who is also the Government’s Taxi Minister. The announcement comes three months after an investigation by the Times uncovered a disturbing trend in women being ‘abused’ by taxi drivers.
Among the case studies was the story of a woman who was allegedly punched in the face, had her mobile
‘We have seen too many cases where drivers have used their job to prey on people’ MP Nus Ghani smashed and was left lying in the road in the early hours of the morning after an argument over the fare.
Another case involved two young women from Crowborough, which is part Ms Ghani’s constituency. As the Taxi Minister Ms Ghani has announced potential reforms that could keep women safer under strict new licensing guidelines. She told the Times: “While Times the vast majority of drivers
are safe and act responsibly, we have seen too many cases where taxi and minicab drivers have used their job to prey on vulnerable people, women and children.” She explained the new rules would see councils ensure every driver undergoes enhanced criminal record and background checks. Her department will also consider whether vehicles should be fitted with CCTV. These encrypted systems mean footage can only be accessed if there is a crime reported.
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