Time to address the plight of taxi drivers

The writer's support for the drivers is admirable, but they don't exactly command sympathy. Their all too often dubious reputation is well founded; and not generally because of sterling service.

'It is not clear what the government means by improving the quality of service ...' Is that a serious observation? Presumably doing what they are supposed to do: taking customers to their destination without refusing, or trying to negotiate a meterless fare, and without carping.

'... perhaps they will not turn down fares as often as people claim they do.' Perhaps? Claim? What BS! It's for the drivers to prove that they are worth a fare increase, and to be properly penalised any time they fail to do so. An occasional 'test customer' would help to achieve that. Not many people would decry a realistic increase in the fare; but only if the drivers are properly and adequately held to account for their actions - or lack, thereof.