Posted on the 5th March 2026 in PHTM News

EDINBURGH CABBIE GIVEN FINAL WARNING AFTER SMOKING AND CALLING MOTORIST A CLOWN

A veteran Edinburgh taxi driver has narrowly avoided losing his licence after being caught smoking in his vehicle for the third time and engaging in a heated confrontation with another motorist.

James Hutton appeared before city councillors on 3 March following a series of complaints that began in 2023, including allegations of "aggressive or threatening behaviour" and failing to display his official badge.

Trading standards manager Tom Veitch told the licensing committee that when Hutton was caught on his third smoking offence, he told officers he "didn’t care."

The committee also heard details of a road dispute where Hutton reportedly branded another driver a "clown" after believing his taxi had been clipped.

The taxi’s owner spoke in Hutton's defence, explaining that the driver of 20 years was "dealing with a bit of stress at the moment" and had promised to stop smoking in the cab.

Regarding the missing badge, the owner clarified that Hutton was cleaning the car at a rank and had the ID in the glovebox rather than on his person.

Addressing the councillors, Hutton admitted the difficulty of his situation. "It’s been a stressful time, and genuinely it’s a hard habit to break. I won’t be smoking in the taxi, that’s for sure," he said, confirming he had already paid a fine for the habit and regretted the incidents.

Despite calls from officials to consider a suspension, the committee opted for a formal warning.

Convener Joanna Mowat noted Hutton’s personal circumstances and the fact he is due for a refresher training course. However, she issued a stern ultimatum to the driver: "We’ve agreed to issue a warning. If you get caught smoking again, it’s not going to be a warning."


Read another story