Private hire driver's licence under review by West Northants Council after he refused to pick up passenger with assistance dog
A private hire driver’s licence is under review after he was found guilty of refusing to pick up a passenger who was accompanied by an assistance dog.
The driver, identified only as Mr Musthafa, is now having his licence reviewed by West Northants Council, the authority which licenced him.
He has been fined a total of £1,367 after the incident, which took place in Shenley Church End in Milton Keynes.
After an investigation, Milton Keynes City Council found Mr Musthafa had driven past the passenger and made no attempt to pick her up.
Mr Musthafa was found guilty under two pieces of the Equality Act 2010.
For the first breach magistrates fined him £405, and ordered him to pay a victim surcharge of £162 and costs of £600.
In relation to the breach of the second part of the act, Mr Musthafa was ordered to pay £200 in compensation to the victim by the court, instead of being issued with a fine.
Under UK law, it is an offence under the Equality Act 2010 for taxi drivers to refuse passengers with assistance dogs unless they have a valid medical exemption.
Speaking following the case, cabinet member for regulatory services at Milton Keynes City Council Mick Legg said: “People who rely on assistance dogs need support and should never face discrimination.
“This law exists to protect their independence and ensure they can travel safely and with dignity.
“We expect drivers to maintain the highest standards and will not hesitate to take action when these are not met.
“If anyone has experienced similar treatment, I encourage them to get in touch so we can investigate.”