A COUNCIL is to look at requiring the installation of CCTV cameras in its licensed taxis and private hire vehicles.

It is also examining whether to introduce basic English proficiency tests for drivers.

The proposals have been welcomed by a cabbies boss.

Blackburn with Darwen Council's Licensing Committee on Tuesday will debate new government guidance on 'Statutory Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Standards' issued in July aimed at increasing protection for children and vulnerable adults.

The borough needs to update its policies in the light of the document.

A report by Donna Riding, the council's principal licensing officer, says: "Government has acknowledged the potential risk to public safety when passengers travel in taxis and private hire vehicles.

"Its view is that CCTV can provide additional deterrence to prevent this and investigative value when it does.

"The use of CCTV can provide a safer environment for the benefit of taxi/private hire vehicle passengers and drivers by deterring and preventing the occurrence of crime; reducing the fear of crime; and assisting the police in investigating incidents of crime.

"All licensing authorities should consult to identify if there are local circumstances which indicate that the installation of CCTV in vehicles

would have either a positive or an adverse net effect on the safety of taxi and private hire vehicle users, including children or vulnerable

adults, and taking into account potential privacy issues.

"Since April 1 2019 51 complaints have been received about the conduct of licensed drivers. If CCTV had been installed in the vehicles,

officers and members would have been assisted in determining any enforcement action.

"Additionally with CCTV installed the amount of complaints would fall. It would also protect drivers from incidents where

passengers don’t pay for their fare or abuse drivers."

The government document states that drivers 'need to be proficient in English as a lack of language proficiency could affect a driver’s ability to understand written documents relating to the protection of children and vulnerable adults.

Ms Riding's report says: "Oral proficiency will be of relevance in the identification of potential exploitation through communicating with passengers and their interaction with others.

"A licensing authority’s test of a driver’s proficiency should cover both oral and written English language skills.

"Officers will need to explore this to achieve compliance with the standards."

Ashraf Mangera, chairman of the Blackburn with Darwen Taxi Association said: "These are good ideas.

"CCTV cameras would give drivers added protection from abuse, violence and threats.

"Basic English proficiency is a requirement of a driver's job."