§ Mrs. Iris RobinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what sanctions are available to penalise taxi drivers who intentionally(a) turn off the meters in their vehicles and (b) overcharge passengers; and if he will make a statement. [161685]
§ Angela SmithThe current fleet of licensed taxis in Northern Ireland is approximately 6,400. Of these 255 (or 4 per cent.) are subject to fare regulation. Drivers of taxis whose fares are regulated must charge the hirer the metered fare when operating within a five mile radius of Belfast city centre. The only exception is if the taxi has been hired under 'special terms' for a period of time.
The penalty for infringement of the relevant By-Laws is a fine of £5. Also in serious cases the Department, following a conviction, has the power to suspend or 310W revoke the taxi driver's licence. It is recognised the present level of fines for non-compliance with metering and charging requirements are not deterring offences. My officials are conducting an urgent review to introduce a more appropriate level of fines.