Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Robinson. 

There were none.

On matters not already included on the agenda and for which prior written notice has been given (total time allowed 15 minutes).

There were none.

The Chairman to notify the Committee of any items of urgent business to be added to the agenda.

There were none.

The Chairman to report any requests received to address the Committee from a member of the public or from a Councillor in respect of an item listed below and to invite the Committee to consider taking such items at the commencement of the meeting.

There were none.

The Committee considered the report of the Director of Service Delivery which requested that Councillors consider and review the Draft Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Guidance document and agree an 8 week consultation with the trade and stakeholders. 

The Functional Lead – Quality Environment referred to Appendix 1 which set out the existing licence conditions; Hackney Carriage Byelaws, Guidelines Relating to Relevance of Conditions, the Quality Control Policy, guidance for new applicants etc. and Appendix 2, the Draft Eastbourne Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Guidance.

Members were advised and the Committee agreed that due to the change in the current landscape as detailed in the report, it was appropriate that the current guidance was reviewed in light of these issues and brought up to date to ensure the safety and welfare of the public was protected.

Discussion included:

·         Whether the Council should aim higher than Euro 6 Diesel standard for vehicle engine emissions and Euro 4 for petrol vehicle emissions. 

• Whether there should be a greater number of accessible vehicles for disabled people. 

• Whether the consultation should include questions regarding expectation and experience of booking a taxi; type of wheelchair used and if a WAV is required.

• The issue of illegal parking by Hackney Carriage and Private Hire drivers was discussed.  Officers agreed to raise the matter at the next taxi forum meeting.

Councillor Murray proposed a motion to accept the proposal.  This was seconded by Councillor Coles.

Resolved: (Unanimous) that:

1) The Committee authorise the Senior Specialist Advisor to start an 8 week consultation with the trade and public.

2) The Committee agree that the result of the consultation be reported to a subsequent meeting of the General Licensing Committee, unless only minor changes are proposed as a result of the consultation responses, in which case any changes may be made by the Functional Lead – Quality Environment in consultation with the Chair of the Licensing Committee.