GMB welcomes temporary measures following Southampton taxi break-ins

After a number of taxis have been broken into, GMB has brokered an agreement with Southampton Council over livery and signage

GMB, the union for taxi and private hire drivers in Southampton, has welcomed Southampton City Council’s temporary measure to support licensed drivers whose vehicles have been damaged or broken into.

A spate of recent vehicle break-ins in Southampton have been targeted at taxis and private hire vehicles when parked and not in use.

The Council’s measure, as agreed with GMB representatives, allows Private Hire Vehicle drivers to use plain, magnetic panels to cover their livery, and gives Hackney Carriage drivers permission to temporarily remove their taxi roof signs when vehicles are parked and not in service.

GMB continues to support its driver members, who are anxious about the recent rise in vehicle crime and are seeking assistance to protect their vehicles and livelihoods.

Ali Haydor, GMB National Taxi and Private Hire Representative said:

“We appreciate the Council’s understanding and flexibility during this challenging period.

“Our members simply want to work safely and keep their vehicles secure.

“We would remind our members these measures must only be used when the vehicle is stationary and all other policies continue to apply when the vehicle is in use.

“We hope those responsible for these break-ins are caught soon so normal regulations can return, as they are in place for a reason.”