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Posted on the 8th April 2026 in PHTM News

FIFE COUNCIL REJECTS TAXI LICENCE BID OVER DRIVERS CRIMINAL HISTORY

A Fife man has been denied a taxi driver licence after local councillors were briefed on his history of violence, drug dealing, and drink-driving.

The Fife Council regulations and licensing committee reached a unanimous decision to reject Thomas Duncan’s application following a formal intervention by Police Scotland.

The committee heard a detailed account of Duncan’s criminal past, which led authorities to conclude he was not suitable for a role involving public trust.

Sergeant Neil Ewing of Police Scotland outlined the three primary concerns to the committee, stating: “There are three separate offences here. The first one being a type of domestic assault where he assaulted his ex-partner’s new boyfriend and was found guilty.”

In addition to the assault, the police highlighted a 2018 conviction for drug supply.

Sergeant Ewing explained that after Duncan was found with cannabis in a vehicle, a search of his home uncovered scales, cash, and a mobile phone. He told the committee: “The second offence was misuse of drugs... he was found guilty at Edinburgh Sheriff Court in 2018 for supply of a controlled drug.”

The final blow to the application was a 2022 car crash in Windygates, where Duncan was found to be more than three times over the drink-driving limit.

His breath test recorded 77 microgrammes of alcohol, far exceeding the legal limit of 22 microgrammes.

Summarising the police’s position, Sergeant Ewing said: “As a result of the road, drugs and assault offences, we do not believe is he a fit and proper person.”

Duncan did not attend the hearing to defend his application. Councillor Lea McLelland moved to block the request immediately, stating: “He is not a fit and proper person. I agree with the police.”

The committee agreed, ensuring Duncan remains barred from operating a taxi in the region.

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