Henley Regatta taxi fiasco lands driver with hefty £1,500 fine

A driver has been slapped with a fine exceeding £1,500 for allowing his vehicle to operate as an unlicensed taxi during the Henley Regatta.

The verdict was delivered by Oxford Magistrates’ Court on 15 January, marking a significant victory for South Oxfordshire District Council.

The court's proceedings unveiled that Raja Ilyas Hussain’s vehicle was caught displaying a "taxi" roof sign on Thameside in Henley-on-Thames on 15 August 2021, but lacking the mandatory licence plate that earmarks a vehicle as licensed. The oversight came to light when Licensing Enforcement Officers, stationed in Henley-on-Thames for the Regatta, approached Hussain's vehicle, which then hastily departed the scene.

Given Hussain's prior possession of a driver’s licence with South Oxfordshire District Council, the court concluded he was well versed in the legal stipulations for operating a vehicle in a public transport capacity. His flouting of the regulations led to a fine of £440 for unlawful plying for hire and a further £660 for operating without the requisite insurance. Additionally, Hussain is to cover a £440 victim surcharge and contribute £800 towards the prosecution costs, culminating in a financial penalty exceeding £1,500. The court also imposed 8 penalty points on Hussain's driving licence.

The case, initially heard in March 2022, was reopened at Hussain's request and concluded in January 2024.

Councillor David Rouane, South Oxfordshire District Council Leader and responsible for Licensing and Community Safety, said: “As they are responsible for the safety of every person they convey in their vehicles, taxi drivers are legally required to have the correct licences before they start work.

“Safety is our number one priority and so we will take action against anyone working without a licence.”