Taxi drivers in Manchester face a test to prove they can chat with passengers in English and do basic sums. Manchester City Council is set to introduce the "basic skills assessment" for all new applicants for private hire and hackney - black cabs - taxi licences. Candidates will have to prove they can respond appropriately to commonly-used expressions like "Can you drop me after the lights?" and the more complicated "Can I have a receipt?" They will also have to speak clearly on topics including recent journeys they have taken and their favourite places in England .... well thats a bloody easy one ! .... The DHSS office ! Manchester City Council has indicated the oral exams will be in the form of a "relaxed conversation" with follow-up questions to prevent "parrot-fashion." Candidates would be given multiple-choice maths questions, such as how much change should be given from a £20 note if the fare cost £9.30 ?Groups representing drivers of black cabs welcomed the scheme, admitting members of the public had expressed concern with the standard of English of some drivers. George Simm, of the Taxi Owners and Drivers Association, said: "People need to know drivers can be understood and make themselves clear. Probably the majority of taxi drivers now are from communities that do NOT have English as their first language."
Any candidate who failed would be helped in improving language and number skills. Existing drivers of black cabs and private-hire drivers will not be forced to take the exams. It currently costs £155 to apply for a black cab licence and £207 for a minicab plate. A Manchester City council spokesman said: "Taxi drivers are ambassadors for Manchester. The vast majority do an excellent job but we are considering the introduction of a basic skills assessment for new applicants as part of our focus on improving the experience of taxi customers."
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