Kramer urges local mini cab passengers to travel safely

10.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 31st Mar 2005

A new yellow and blue disc comes into force in Richmond this week so that mini cab customers can spot registered and legal vehicles easily. The scheme means that the mini cab trade is a step closer to being fully regulated.

Susan Kramer, Lib Dem candidate for Richmond Park said:

"I fully support the yellow and blue disc scheme. Each mini cab must now display details of their vehicle licence number, registration and the number of passengers it can legally carry as well as the licence expiry

date.

"This is an important step towards safer travel. Each cab will now be inspected annually and only roadworthy vehicles will be issued with new licences.

"All mini cab drivers are now covered by this scheme. I think it will give a greater sense of reassurance for people hiring mini cabs locally, particularly women who may do so late at night after an evening out.

" Safety is paramount and I hope this new scheme will provide a better insurance policy for all those who use mini cabs locally."