TAXI drivers have slammed plans to make them undergo more stringent medicals before being allowed to take customers.

Under the scheme, to be presented to Preston's licensing committee today (Thursday), cabbies will have to undergo 'group two' medicals, similar to those for HGV drivers, instead of 'group one' examinations.

The new test will look at eyesight, blood pressure and any disabilities which could prevent cabbies from driving safely. Several new regulations have been included, which state that certain illnesses not previously thought to affect driving are now an impediment.

Council officers say the plan will mean safer roads for locals, but taxi drivers claim it will hit them hard - especially as they have to pay for the test.

Sandra Chesters, of the Preston Hackney Carriage Drivers Association, said: "Group Two examinations cost more, up to £70. That is £70 cabbies can ill afford.

"Cabbies are struggling to make ends meet. We already face fuel price increases and to suddenly start paying up to £50 extra is bad news."

The committee report is also critical of driving practices.

It states that cabbies often drive for hours without a break, and claims that some have been spotted sleeping behind the wheel.

But Sandra added: "Can you remember the last time a hackney carriage driver was involved in a crash?

"They are so careful because they know it is their livelihood.

"We may not have the same break rules as HGV drivers, but that doesn't make us unsafe.

"We would not do anything to risk the safety of our passengers and if we felt we weren't fit to drive, then we wouldn't. This isn't easy money for us."

A council spokesman said: "This is part of our initiative to improve the quality of the services provided by taxi trades, both hackney and private hire, to the public.

"This new scheme is particularly important, given the lack of restriction on the number of working hours."

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