I am writing this petition on behalf of the private hire taxi drivers in Milton Keynes who are concerned about the recent door signage conditions issued by the Milton Keynes taxi licensing department.

We understand the importance of displaying taxi signage while in operation, but having to display the signage at all times, even when we are not working, is causing vulnerability and discomfort for the drivers.

Many drivers feel uneasy about leaving their cars with their signage and plate on, especially with the increase in windows being smashed in Milton Keynes.

Recently, a driver had his window smashed while parked in a car park in central Milton Keynes.

The thieves were specifically targeting his car because it was identifiable as a taxi. This is causing financial and psychological distress for drivers who have to repair the damage and suffer the consequences of theft.

We understand the need for clear identification of licensed taxi vehicles, but we believe there are alternative ways to achieve this without putting our cars and livelihoods at risk. In the past, magnetic plates were introduced to allow drivers to remove their plates when not working to avoid identification as a taxi. We would like to request that a similar solution be implemented for the door signage.

In addition, we would like to know what benefit the council gains from having the signage on 24/7, as many drivers use their cars for work and personal purposes. The disadvantage for the drivers is that their cars are identifiable as taxis even when they are not in operation, making them vulnerable to theft, vandalism, and sometimes with threats of violence.

We kindly request that the council reconsider this condition and implement measures to protect our vehicles and livelihoods when we are not working. We hope that this matter will be given the attention it deserves.

We have raised these concerns with the full support of our co-workers and their views on safety and livelihood considerations and we have obtained their full consent and support.