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Posted on the 21st July 2025 in PHTM News
BURNLEY COUNCILLOR RAISES ALARM OVER CABBIE'S ENGLISH PROFICIENCY
A former Conservative group leader on Burnley Council, now sitting as an Independent, Cllr Alan Hosker, has voiced strong concerns regarding the English language proficiency of some taxi and private hire vehicle drivers in the borough, calling for new regulations.
Cllr Hosker, himself a former taxi driver, brought the issue before the authority’s executive on Wednesday night, July 9, stating: "It was brought to my attention through concerns raised by members of the public on some taxi drivers not being able to speak English."
He emphasised that "members of the public need to be able to travel in safety, knowing that the driver can speak English," particularly in emergencies.
Highlighting past experiences, Cllr Hosker recounted his time on the licensing committee where "some drivers who were brought before the committee had to bring an interpreter."
He stressed that this is "a matter of public safety and communication," asking: "How can Joe Public communicate with the driver in an emergency if he cannot speak English?"
Cllr Hosker expressed frustration, noting: "I have tried to raise this several times with the licensing committee and have been ignored. I want this addressed here."
However, Cllr Howard Baker, the council’s community and environment boss, stated that the matter fell under the purview of the licensing committee, not the executive. He advised Cllr Hosker to provide specific examples of public complaints and instances where a driver's poor English was an issue in emergencies to ensure the matter is properly examined.
Following the meeting, Cllr Hosker remained resolute, commenting: "They have fobbed me off again. I shall continue to raise this issue, including at full council."
He recalled that Burnley Council "used to have a knowledge test, including that drivers must speak good English," and reiterated his desire for the public to "have confidence to be able to travel safely and understand the driver."
He concluded: "It is up to the council to make sure this is sorted. I am making my points as a matter of concern."
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