Taxi drivers in Moray could soon have to prove they are fit for the job by providing a medical report with their licence applications.
Members of the local council’s licensing committee will decide this week if they should progress with plans to make hopeful taxi drivers submit a formal medical report.
The requirement was one of several agreed last year as part of a shake-up of taxi licensing conditions, although it has not yet been progressed.
On Wednesday, the committee will be asked to reaffirm its commitment to the rigorous policy, which could cost up to £25,000 to enforce.
Moray Council claims the taxi trade did initially back medical reports on the grounds of public safety, but last night drivers said they believed the new policy was unnecessary.
Company manager of Elgin’s C&R Taxis Rod Mclennan said: “If you have got existing medical conditions they should be known by all means, and, in cases like diabetes, the DVLA already know and can restrict licenses.
“Therefore, I don’t believe it’s necessary for Moray Council to take that any further.
“It seems the council are acting above their board.”
Council officers say the cost of commissioning reports would fall on the local authority initially, although it could be recouped through an increase in licensing fees.
A council spokesman said: “It is estimated that the cost of reports would be at least £100 to £125 each and approximately 200 would be required per annum. This is a total estimated cost of £20,000 to £25,000.”
Under the existing system, applicants are required to disclose any medical conditions which might affect their ability to drive and are asked specifically about heart problems and diabetes.
If issues are identified, a report is sought and paid for by the licensing authority.