TAXI drivers in South Essex could be set for more rigorous licensing standards.

The Local Government Agency (LGA) has urged that legislation needs updating in order to improve passenger safety.

They say that taxi laws need urgently updating to reflect new technology, help reduce the risk of child sexual exploitation and create a level playing field for drivers

This is in light of the rise of app-based taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) companies such as Uber.

Some of the current legislation dates back to 1847 and horse-drawn hackney carriages.

Councils cannot take enforcement action against the rising numbers of taxi drivers licensed by other authorities operating in their area.

This is causing huge frustration to councils and local drivers who, depending on what the local rules are, may have had to comply with more rigorous licensing standards.

This is one of the concerns for Benfleet-based taxi driver, Geoff Bradley, who agreed legislation was needed, but queried whether it would be effective.

Reacting to the LGA’s proposals, Mr Bradley said: “So what about Uber?

“They must have to bring in something similar to Uber and other PHV drivers.

“Taxi drivers have licensing officers to report to at the moment, but Uber drivers don’t because they’re self-employed.

“If it’s effective, then I’m happy to have stricter laws brought in because ultimately it’s a good thing and people need protection.

He continued to say that driver’s safety is just as important as passenger safety.

He said: “It’s difficult as a cab driver as well because you can never be too sure about some passengers.But are they going to follow it up?”