EDITOR'S CHOICE READER VIEWS Mayor's final message; well known cat killed ...readers say what they think WORTH VALLEY NEWS ‘Superhead’ Martin is all set to take on another challenging role KNIGHTS OUT Cullingworth comedians pull the other one MEMORY LANE Handsome structure was rebuilt AIRE VALLEY NEWS Mayor offers thanks to colleagues CARTOONS View our Hambone, every day! Or view our Honeyball! GET OUR NEWS BY E-MAIL Just register

Most read Comments 1 Two arrested over burglary 2 Family left to mourn as search starts for burglar 3 Jailed drug dealer has £33,000 assets seized 4 Dealer’s £250 drug stash leads to custody 5 Ten residents at care home are given two weeks to find new accommodation 6 Sex claims man stays in custody 7 Couple say ‘I do’ to 1940s wedding plan 8 Look-out left prints at scene 9 ‘Black magic’ led to cricket-bat murder 10 ‘Embarrassing’ increase in complaints against councillors Today | 7 Days 1 Parents’ shock as school takes thumb scans 2 Councillor accused in washing line row 3 Group set to offer guidance for women

Comment

The Government has come under pressure to address assaults on taxi drivers.

In a debate in Westminster, ministers were told of incidents across the country where drivers were verbally or physically attacked or even killed while trying to earn a living.

In April 2006, Keighley taxi driver Mahmood Ahmed, a father of six, was beaten and stabbed to death. His body was found in Slack Lane, Oakworth.

In February last year, Michael Metcalfe, 46, was jailed for life for his murder.

Many more taxi drivers in the district have been robbed and attacked.

In a letter to Home Office minister Vernon Coaker, Cullingworth and Denholme MP Philip Davies said: "I was horrified to hear of some of the situations taxi drivers are facing.

"This is something that should not be tolerated.

"It is quite clear the Home Office and the police need to take it perhaps more seriously than they are doing at the moment."

In response, Mr Coaker said assaults on people going about their business were regarded as very serious.

A Government study into the personal security of private hire vehicle and taxi drivers is awaiting publication.

10:22am Friday 9th May 2008

Print

Email this

Comment