IoL - March Taxi Conference, York

JGP attended the IoL’s taxi conference at York this week, with Partner Christopher Grunert taking part in an Workshop Panel with other Taxi experts.

There were very interesting presentations throughout the day, including presentations from Russell Hawkins of Southampton City Council and executive Board member of the National Anti-Fraud Network (NAFN).

NAFN is a public sector organization that provides data and intelligence services to local authorities, housing associations, and other public bodies in the UK to help them tackle and prevent fraud and crime, protecting the public purse. In the field of taxi licensing, the data base can be updated by Licensing Authorities to record driver information for a range of reasons including those who have their licence revoked, renewals refused or application declined for cheating. Other Licensing Authorities can then review the register for relevant information concerning individuals who may subsequently apply to them for a licence.

Russell updated conference on updates to the NAFN system:

1. Matched Historical Search Alert: Which will notify users of when a new decision matches a past search – ensuring Licensing Authorities keep updated with persons of interest.
2. In-system Direct DPA Requests: Allowing Licensing Authorities to request key information from other licensing authorities in just a few clicks

Another interesting update was from David Lawrie of the National Private Hire Trade Associate (NPHTA) regarding CCTV in Private Hire vehicles and the data protections consequences. David reported that NPHTA has been working with the ICO to create a helpful summary of the ICO’s permission and Private Hire industry’s responsibilities. This note is expected this month and should help clarify the ICO’s position for the industry.

We shall keep you updated.