HARLOW Council has successfully defended its decision to refuse a private hire driver licence, following serious safeguarding allegations.

In 2022, the council took immediate action to revoke the licence of Mr Kazi Haque. When Mr Haque later submitted a fresh application, Harlow Council’s Regulatory Sub-Committee determined that he was not a ‘fit and proper’ person to hold a licence and refused the application.

Mr Haque appealed the decision, but at a hearing in September at Southend Magistrates’ Court, he chose to withdraw the appeal. The court proceeded to hear the outline of the case to determine costs. After a brief deliberation, magistrates ruled in favour of the council and awarded full legal costs of £9,144, to be paid by the applicant.

Councillor Clive Souter, Chair of the Licensing Committee, said:

“Harlow Council operates a zero-tolerance approach to safeguarding concerns. Passenger safety is our highest priority, and we will not hesitate to act when there is any doubt about an individual’s suitability to hold a licence.

“We are pleased that the council’s decision has stood up to legal scrutiny. This outcome sends a clear message: we will take firm and decisive action to protect the public and uphold the highest standards in our licensing system.

“The council has a legal and moral duty to ensure that licensed drivers are safe, responsible, and trustworthy. We will continue to rigorously assess all applications and take robust action against any applicant or licensee who fails to meet the required standards.”

Residents are encouraged to only use Hackney carriage and private hire vehicles that are licensed by the council. Licensed drivers and vehicles are subject to rigorous checks and ongoing monitoring to ensure they meet the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and customer care, and choosing a Harlow-licensed vehicle helps protect passengers and supports a safer transport network for everyone.