Hi Sean and others,

I have had a call from my insurance company today who have confirmed I am definitely covered to drive ANY motor vehicle in my care.

It would seem that the insurance is not an issue and I would agree the MOT test is not as keen as the taxi plate.

I did speak to the licensing people yesterday and categorically stated that ONLY a driver licensed for private hire can drive a licensed private hire vehicle for any purpose!!! I said this is crazy he said thats what the law states.

He took the trouble to check for me and could not find any provision for road testing before/after or during repairs, He said the driver must test drive it.

He also said that at least one taxi garage he knows have got their mechanics licensed in order to allow them to drive their cars!!

So if he is right whose law is it and who would do you? The council? the police? the local magistrate? maybe I am making a mountain out of a mole hill but I think as an industry we need clarification.

Mike