Blackburn with Darwen’s environmental boss Cllr Jim Smith is to be applauded for his firm and sensible stance against cab driving Conservative Cllr Tiger Patel who frivolously demanded at a full council forum that tea and coffee facilities should be provided in the waiting room at the authorities motor vehicle testing station.

At least Mr Patel did not have the cheek to ask for biscuits!

Mr Smith, in defending a further complaint that the waiting room was cold, pointed out that a heater installed in the room controlled the temperature together with a free water dispenser.

I agree with him that there are far more important front line services to be prioritised and protected in the current financial climate of austerity than providing refreshments.

As an occasional taxi user who in the past has experienced serious concerns with safety standards I also support the ongoing decision not to outsource the MOT testing to the private sector but to insist that regular inspections are completed at its Davyfield Depot despite the threat of striking cabbies.

This additional decision ensures greater peace of mind for fare paying passengers with confidence that vehicles are being maintained to a high degree of safety.

Jim Oldcorn