Local Authorities urged to SUSPEND private hire door signage after vehicles targeted during rioting and disturbances

Several licensing authorities have been urged to SUSPEND the requirement for private hire vehicle (PHV) door signage as tensions continue to run high throughout the country.

Ibrar Hussain, a driver representative, has called on several local authorities to remove signage from PHVs. In requests addressed to Sheffield City Council, Rotherham Council, and North East Derbyshire District Council, Hussain emphasised the urgent need for this measure in light of recent disturbances.

Hussain stated it was ‘absolutely 100% clear’ that some people taking part in the nationwide unrest are deliberately targeting PHVs.

He added that many drivers feared for their safety and are worried about going out to work. Hussain urged councils to act quickly by implementing the immediate suspension of the door signage requirement.

Hussain wrote: “In light of the current situation its absolutely 100% clear evident that private hire vehicle's have been attacked deliberately with door signage, and at many place's.

“Today Sunday 4 August 2024, many driver's were in fear to go out to work, worried about their safety, and those that did I hear many were victims of items been thrown at them or attacked, so many driver's drove off away quickly, only reason recognised was being private hire vehicle was clear visible door signage all round.

“I ask taking into account current situation and this is not going to go away anytime sooner, this condition of door signage is suspended with immediate effect, driver safety is a must.

“An emergency decision is needed and we must act to protect the driver's. I await your urgent response.”