COUNCIL CONCERNS
REFORM COUNCILLOR FACES BACKLASH OVER BASSETLAW “DANGEROUS” CABBIE CLAIMS
A political firestorm has broken out in Bassetlaw as Cllr Fraser McFarland faces demands for an apology after labelling certain local taxi drivers as individuals with “dangerous criminal histories.” The controversy follows data revealed by Bassetlaw DC in September 2024, showing over the past decade, 12 PH licences were granted to people with convictions for violent offences, and one for a sexual offence. Recent updates showed an additional two licences were granted to applicants with convictions within the last year. Cllr McFarland, leader of the opposition for Reform, has used the figures to demand a full review of the licensing system. In a scathing assessment of the
findings, he stated: “That means at least 15 people with dangerous criminal histories have been approved to carry passengers. This is unacceptable. It is unsafe.” McFarland argued that residents should not have to worry about a driver’s
history of “violence or
sexual offending,” describing the situation as a “serious failure of oversight and judgement.” Bassetlaw DC has moved quickly to defend its vetting process, noting that of the 15 licences questioned, only five
remain
active. The council clarified these historical convictions occurred between 10 - 33 years ago. Under current policy, the council maintains that no licence granted to anyone with a sexual
is
offence conviction, nor to those with serious violent offences within the last 10 years. A council spokesperson rebuked McFarland: “It’s important that Cllr McFarland’s comments do not undermine the wider Bassetlaw taxi industry and cast doubt over the legitimacy of all taxi drivers.” The row has drawn in Bassetlaw’s Labour MP, Jo White, who characterised McFarland’s remarks as a “disgrace.” Cllr McFarland later made the following statement on his Facebook page: “I will not apologise, regardless of pressure from Cllr Jo White MP. I will continue to call out failings at Bassetlaw DC and will always prioritise the safety of women and children.”
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