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QUESTIONS AND QUESTIONS...
I have some questions for the BoM and would be grateful if Call Sign could obtain the answers.
   * Is there an agreed recommended minimum charge we can make on street hiring credit card jobs. I feel £8 would be an acceptable amount.
   * What is a logo'ed cab to qualify for the lower subscription? I have seen cabs with the CCC only in the windscreen, door logos but no windscreen sticker, old door and windscreen stickers. Also how many subscribers are paying the higher rate?
   * Lately I have seen a big increase in the number of reported emergencies. Is this a problem with the new terminal or is there a genuine increase? Also I have never seen a follow up message of where the incident is, are they all false calls?
   Now E14C: The old adage of 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' comes to mind. Before the change, if it was busy with cash, there would be no DaC cabs on the rank and the E14C jobs would be offered to number 1 on E14. This seemed to work well, but now we seem to have 48 cabs booked into E14C at 18:00. You take a job to Canary wharf only to find that you will get to the front of the cash rank before the offer of a job. Cabot Square accounts are incurring bigger run-ins during the non-busy times and causing the majority of drivers greater problems to resolve a minor problem with a minority of drivers. Please revert to our old trusted physical rank.
   And finally Code 3: I, like the majority voted in favour of returning to the old way. The (code77) going home facility was only working in really busy periods when the society needed the drivers the most. This was an absolute waste of many empty cabs sitting around wearing out the terminal buttons/screen. I voted against it mainly because once done, there was no going back. Neither work very well. As 80% of drivers live east and 80% of customers live west, then the odds are that one going home job per week will be the average. I live in Woodford; a going home job to me is anything from Wembley to Grays, but not Croydon, Sutton, Hounslow etc.
How about a credits system; earn a credit for every job you do (2 for a "W" job) and when you reach say 12 credits in a slack period or 20 credits in a busy period, you can do a code 3 in any zone and reject as many as you wish. But when on code 3, the "A/D" marker should be automatically disabled on jobs offered. Therefore hard working drivers have a better chance of an acceptable last job.
Alan Nash (A95)
Allan Evans replies: In reply to your letter, Alan, I would like to list the following answers on behalf of the BoM. Credit Card Street hiring trips are in theory cash pickups, which do not at this present time carry a minimum fare.
   A logo'ed taxi is a taxi that carries the DaC Logo on both front doors, as well as the CCC sticker on the front windscreen, any drivers not wishing to display the logo would be charged the increased monthly subscription. Drivers paying the reduced fees and found not to be carrying the logos would be answerable to a procedural complaint. At present, 14 subscribers choose to pay the increased subscriptions, which is less than 1% of the total fleet.
   A slight rise in reported emergencies have occurred lately - mainly false calls - and now that the red emergency button has been relocated in a slightly higher position above the footwell in the taxis, this problem should be overcome.
E14C: I have written a more detailed account in my article in this edition of Call Sign, but when you mentioned that the old adage of 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it', I for one must disagree with this statement because along with the other Marshals working at Cabot Square, we were continuously asked to check and monitor the system because drivers were booking into the physical rank when they were nowhere to be seen. We were constantly asked to give drivers the option of servicing only account work, which they now have and also to be able to acquire Morgan Stanley work and not pick up work late into the evening from the cash rank, which at times could be a little unsavoury. Procedures are put in place by the BoM to be followed, but unfortunately certain drivers are still abusing the 15-minute run in. This along with the quiet Bank holiday period and the drop in demand, has magnified the problem of taxis booking in fowl of the rank. The Board has always maintained that this is a trial introduced to help drivers, but these procedures will be strictly monitored and can and will be changed if necessary.
   Code 3: The BoM was completely unbiased in their views regarding either the old or the revised change to the going home facility. The changes that you have listed would need a lot more thought and time spent on them and at this moment in time, could not be offered.

COMPLAINTS RULES...
In the report in Call Sign, Complaints Procedure, Tom Whitbread asks the question: "Can I issue a warning, reprimand or severe reprimand?" The answer in short is no, he can't. There is no provision in the rule book that allows for this. I am wondering whether the wording and instituting of a question mark is meant to mislead. Also I note that the complaints hearing is being made up from a small section of the membership. This is also outside of the rules. It would be open to any member to refuse to accept the committee as valid as the complaints hearing is not as constituted in the rule book. The term 'fellow members' refers to the membership as a whole, not part thereof.
Maurice Haben (G17)
Tom Whitbread replies: Maurice, you are confusing Procedural rules with Society rules again. I assure you that I can and do give warnings under procedural rules. If the matter goes beyond that to a Complaints Committee, then it comes under Society rules. As for the Complaints Committee, would you rather have three 'fellow members' judging you who don't really want to be there? The committee list has always been open to members and any subscriber could have put his or her name down. Again, it is your interpretation of the rules, as it doesn't say anywhere that we can't have a list of volunteers...

E14C
I recently booked into Cabot Sq outside number 22 and waited about ten minutes. Suddenly I felt the need for a 'Jimmy Riddle' and checked my queue position to find that I was number eleven. So I made a dash for the loo and when I got back, found that I had been 'booked-off zone' due to being offered a cash ride in E1 that had been in the system for about 40 minutes! So I booked back in at number 24 and found myself with a 30-minute wait! I think that if you have the system the way it is now between 1800 - 0000, then we should at least be able to spend a penny by using the 'temporary off' facility. Also, is that the only time that robber's hit the ranks between 1800 - 0000? Oh, I forgot, they have to be in bed by midnight, don't they...
Rob Pearman (E28)
Allan Evans replies: You speak about being outside No.22 Cabot Square, do you mean nos. 20 or 25? The rank is actually policed by the DaC Marshals between 18.00 and 0000, it therefore made perfect sense to use those hours for this period which runs perfectly with the hours worked by the Marshals, who could then be on hand if there was a problem of any kind especially in the early days. This rank mirrors EC5 and a 'temporary off' is not allowed whilst booked into E14C. You must at all times be sitting in your taxi if you are booked in to service this particular rank. Unfortunately you will never please every driver but a finishing time needed to be set and midnight was the preferred time when account and cash work slows down and most drivers feel happy to take both types of work, as well as having a DaC Marshal on site.

LOOKING BACKWARDS AND FORWARDS
Whilst hunting through back issues of Call Sign, I came across something that I feel is a cause of concern to us all at DaC. The Call Sign issue was December 2000 (p21), Special Projects written by Mike Son. In the article, Mike writes about a new Inter City Business Class Service for Virgin, complimented by our premier taxi service due to be launched at the end of January 2001. Mike had been negotiating alongside David Adelman and it appeared from the article that all was going well with a review of all aspects of the account due in June 2001.
   Now unless I am very much mistaken, so far as Dial-a-Cab is concerned, this bias has not happened. But has it actually come into existence covered by Mr Adelman's new company, Brunel Cars? I agree with Brian's (Rice) statement that we cannot blame someone for wanting to better themselves and accepting a job offer that will give them more of what they want than their present job, but there is no reason why we should ever do any form of business with their new company. Apart from the job knowledge that these people have, they are also viewed by the Private Hire companies as a conduct to doing business with their old company (DaC) and this increases their value to the PH companies. If we made it quite clear to these companies and any employees that we would never do any business with them or their new companies, it would reduce their value. The same should also apply to people such

LONDON TAXI BOARD AND THE RULEBOOK
With regard to Bob Ambrose (V13) letter, 'London Taxi Board' (May Call Sign) and Steven van Gelder (C87) (March Call Sign) regarding Brian Rice being a member of The London Taxi Board, I would like to make the following observation. Brian Rice is mandated to sit on no such board. He is bound by the Name and Objects (rule 1) of the rule book. The objects are clearly laid out therein. Brian, I am sure, will state that the rule book doesn't expressly preclude him from attending such an organisation. This is nonsense. For the objects to preclude an activity the Name and Objects rule would need to incorporate millions of not to do's. For an example: Not to do rule 20,000 1b - The Society shall not operate a paedophile group on the fourth floor of Brunswick House. This example is not meant to cause offence. I use the example to graphically illustrate my point that 'not to do's' are not incorporated. Therefore, the Name and Objects stands as written. Therefore, also, Brian is NOT mandated by the members to sit on this board or any other. Brian does not consult the members and present to them any minutes of such meetings. I would recommend that Steven van Gelder and Bob Ambrose's request that this issue is decided by way of a vote, is taken up by the membership.
   Also now that the Board has recently been elected for two years, I hope you would note that the issue of one-stop-shop and getting into bed with ComCab and minicab companies has been resurrected with a vengeance. Perhaps the meeting could also thrash out this issue. Incidentally, is anybody surprised that Adleman's company is now moving into our accounts with their A Class Mercs. From Brian's response, one could wonder whether a long term, hidden agenda, tie-up is in the offing. I recommend that the members wake up before it is too late.
Maurice Haben (G17)
Brian Rice replies: Sorry Maurice, I completely disagree with you. For me to attend ANY meeting that concerns the future of the members of DaC is absolutely imperative
as far as I am concerned. After all, if you do not attend then you can do absolutely nothing to influence the future. To put the record straight regarding the Taxiboard, I believe that it has now outlived its' usefulness due to the departure of the LTDA and the T&G, also in the not too distant future LTI will be campaigning to retain the purpose built vehicle. There are 'for' and 'against' arguments and it is one that the radio circuits would be well advised to distance themselves from. However, it is interesting to note that when the authorities have meetings, they invite the respective organisations and not Taxiboard. Every meeting that I now attend is in the capacity of Chairman of DaC and not as a member of Taxiboard. What is very interesting is that over the last eighteen months, JRTA have emerged as a considerable force within our industry and is seen as an organisation that represents more taxi drivers than all the other trade organisations put together and hopefully the voice of common sense and moderation. Will Taxiboard continue? In my view it probably will, but only as a shell with each trade organisation 'doing its own thing, which in my view is a pity because from unity comes strength.
   Regarding David Adelman's departure to Brunel Carriage, are you seriously suggesting that I prompted an order to have a link with the two companies? I can't believe you are serious...
   "Resurrecting the one stop shop" is not true, it never went away. It is something that I have been talking about for at least the last two years and it will happen. If forging closer links with ComCab and pioneering 'Complete Ground Transportation' benefits the members of Dial a Cab and increases their earning potential, then I am all for it.

TESTING THE CLARION NAVIGATION SYSTEM
I have read in one of the trade papers that you have had a satellite navigation system fitted to your cab. The article did not have any information on who the supplier was. Could you please let me know where I might see this equipment with a view to purchase?
T. Hajdar (C39)
Mr Hajdar's letter was one of a surprisingly large number all asking the same question ever since Cab Driver Editor Dave Allen ran an article saying that I was testing the system. My review on the Clarion can be found in the May issue and should you want to see the system, go to Paragon at 280 Richmond Road E8. As navigation systems don't come cheap, should you require finance, it can be arranged through George Vyse at Nationwide Taxis, 99 Dunbridge Street E1. Their phone number is 0207 729 8046. Whilst I cannot promise anything, Georgie assures me that Dial-a-Cab drivers will get a special deal ... Ed

TESTING FUEL POWER
I have read in Call Sign with great interest about the additive called 'Fuel Power' from the USA. I am afraid that I cannot recall the details of the introduction in the April issue, but it would be nice to know whether this additive is available and if so, where can one get it from. I would be grateful if you could let us know in the next issue of Call Sign.
John Fixler (L21)
Fuel Power is still on test. Call Sign has some drivers testing it out and as yet it is unavailable to purchase. When our results are added to those from other groups (lorries, buses etc), then it may well be put on sale commercially. It certainly seems to improve performance greatly, but as yet it hasn't reduced fuel consumption. However, the manufacturers do say the performance has to improve before fuel will benefit, but you have to remember the nature of this trade with its stop/start/ five passengers up Highgate Hill as against one to the airport etc. Gauging is difficult. See the Fuel Power report in this issue for an update ...Ed

DECISIVENESS ON CODE 3
Sorry Alan, but this is yet another letter about Code 3. I voted to revert to Code 3 because I found that Code 77 wasn't working for me. I prefer Code 3 because it gives me a choice. Living as I do in E11, I'm happy to accept N16, E5, N1 etc, etc and I find that I am quite often offered a suitable job, whereas under Code 77 this was a rarity. I will certainly support Code 3 in any future vote.
Mick Kennedy (M30)
It's nice to find someone who is happy with the way he voted, Mick. It will be interesting to see whether, if there is another vote next year, the result is still an even split ...Ed

COMPUTER SALE
I am wondering what has happened to the computers, the ones Brian Rice mentioned in Call Sign Magazine back in January or February. He said they would be sold to us as they had been replaced by a new system. He also said not to get in touch with the office, as we would be informed when they would be released. I, for one, would like to buy one, or at least, stand a chance of buying one. I have done what was asked and not bothered anybody about them, but now fear that by doing so I might have missed the chance. Stories abound as to what might have happened to them, so perhaps you could find out for me and put my mind at rest.

Colin Walters (K83)
I have been told that the process of removing the old software and generally cleaning up those PC's has proved to be rather time consuming, however, be assured that you and everyone else interested will be given the chance to buy one when they have all been overhauled. Currently around 65% have been completed but to start selling them in odds and sods would only cause arguments. And besides, my kids have ordered the first 40... it was only a joke before anyone writes in! ...Ed

PCO AND WEEKEND OPENINGS
We all know that the Public Carriage Office is not open on weekends, yet on the recent meter updates at various venues around town, the Carriage Officers were out in abundance. Just an observation...!
Sam Harris (S95J)
You old stirrer you! ...Ed

'ER INDOORS
I do enjoy reading Leigh Briden's 'Er Indoors column; her off-the-shelf sense of humour does make me smile. But last month's article (May Call Sign) really did show another side of her. She may have made a joke out of publishing her husband's photo for his birthday, but the words alongside showed that all joking aside, she really loves him to bits! Well-done Leigh! However, I may well need your help when my 'Dacman' comes home and sees my name in Call Sign (if it is printed) under a letter about love in a taxi magazine!
Barbara Gelding
St Albans, Herts

THANKS FROM TREVOR CLARKE
May I take this opportunity to thank the many members and journeymen and members of staff who sent me letters and cards on my recent retirement, it was indeed gratifying for both Jeanette and myself to receive all these good wishes. I would further like to thank the Chairman and the members whose letters were published in Call Sign and in refraining from replying individually, trust that this heartfelt thanks will express our thoughts and good wishes to all at Dial-a-Cab for their taking the time and trouble to mark this happy event for ourselves. I do hope that each and every one of you enjoys good health in the years to come.
Trevor Clarke
Former Secretary to the Society

MICHAEL DELEW
Michael Delew was my son. He had driven with Dial-a-Cab for 10 years and for many of those years, both he and I shared a taxi. Tragically, he died at the young age of 37 of Bronchial Pneumonia.
   Michael's death has devastated my family yet, at the same time, we have been humbled by the warmth, affection and support that has come from other drivers who's lives were touched by Michael.
   I would like to take this opportunity to thank all who have offered their condolences, and in particular to David Kupler (Y74) for his very moving tribute to Michael in the last issue of Call Sign (May 2001) and Alan Fisher for his kind words within the Editorial.
   These have been difficult and trying times for my family, but the depth of feeling for Michael has given us great hope that his name will not be forgotten.
Thank you...
Sydney Delew (D12)

I read Call Sign quite regularly as my son is a subscriber. I recently took my computer to be repaired having caught a virus in some software that I had loaded, when I returned to the shop to pick up the 'cleaned-up' PC, I was complimented on the innards of the computer.
   "Very well designed," said the guy in the shop just off the Bethnal Green Road, "lots of room inside for upgrades, whoever made it did a very good job." I thought nothing else of his remarks until seeing the next issue of Call Sign, which reported the terrible death of Mickey Delew. It was, in fact, Mickey Delew who had built it! I had seen his ad in Call Sign, I phoned him up and before I knew it, he had built me one at a fraction of the store price. His death at such a young age is appalling and my thoughts go out to his family.
Anna Constantinou
Bethnal Green, E2

BOB AMBROSE REPLIES TO BRIAN RICE'S REPLY...!
"First of all Bob, I would like you to show me where the LTB have ever stated that the knowledge should only take twelve months."(May 2001 Call Sign):
Ok Brian; In October 1992 the LTB published a lengthy plan for the unification of London taxi-minicab services. I must abbreviate because the plan would fill this mag. Re the Knowledge, they proposed that all applicants must first become suburban drivers with an estimated time of 4 - 5 months.  They could then apply for a 'green badge' for which they would be required to learn 240 runs as against the-then 468.  They added the rider: "It would  be essential that there be uniformity of standards required at examinations." If that is not a drop in standards, I've yet to see one. Consequently they estimated that your presumably working suburban driver could pass the green badge in 7 - 8 months. There was however, within the plan, provision for students to bypass the suburban stage if there was any perceived shortage of drivers in Central London. Forgive me for saying 12 months; I should have said 7 - 8. Perhaps it had something to do with your comment in Call Sign (July 99), "...there is no reason why it should take much longer than 12 months."
   I have read similar comments from other LTB members. Interestingly, Jamie Borwick, boss of LTI was opposed in his recent Call Sign article (April) to any alteration in the Knowledge, no doubt like me, foreseeing a large increase in drivers leading to a drop in individual earnings and rendering them unable to afford his TX1.
   Lest anyone should dismiss a 1992 plan as irrelevant, I would point out that the 'plan' was also in favour of computerised examinations, the abolition of the six-mile limit and the aforementioned suburban route for the KoL, all of which have recently received Mayoral approval. The plan would appear to be alive and well.
   Re my facts and figures, I rang the PCO and spoke to the Senior KoL Examiner, Mr Bishop. He confirmed that there were over 11,000 applicants in the system and that they were increasing by something like 25 a day. He put the average length of the Knowledge from application to badge at 2 - 3 years. He added that he would take issue with anyone who said it took 4.5 years. I forgot to check your wastage figure but if correct, it only applies to the time the KoL is taking at present. If you reduce the time, you reduce the wastage. More will pass and more will apply. Every effort seems to be being made by the LTB to turn the tap of new drivers onto full blast, with no mechanism in place to turn it off if their dubious forecast of extra work fails to materialise. I fear that it is what comes of allowing people who don't drive cabs so much influence over our affairs.
I have just read an article in the Evening Standard, which points out that the LCDC - LTDA who disagree with the Mayor on certain issues, only have 5000 members whereas JRTA, who represent 8000, don't, the implication being that more drivers support these proposals than don't. The reality is that the BoM's of these radio circuits have never fully consulted their members as to their wishes. With that in mind, I again call upon the Board to hold either a special meeting or a postal vote to decide the two following separate questions:
1...Should we continue to belong to the LTB?
2...Should we continue to belong to JRTA?
   In the likely event that they decide no such thing, please fellow subscribers, activate rule 9b citing these two separate questions as your reason. If you can't be bothered, don't take on any debts.
Bob Ambrose (V13)
Brian Rice replies: Brian Rice replies: I think you will find that I have answered most of your points in my reply to Maurice Haben. I can only relay to you what Roy Ellis told the meeting which I attended along with the Mayor of London, he stated that there were 2,600 candidates attending the PCO and undergoing appearances, which is a lot different to over 11,000 'on the books'. You will have to make up your own mind as to what you believe. As an example, DaC has over 8,000 accounts of which about 4,000 are active. So the 11,000 may well be 'on the books' but only 2600 are actually doing the KoL. Regarding my comment in Call Sign in July 99, I think you should quote exactly the piece I wrote and not take something out of context, I wrote: "There is no reason why a candidate who is committed should take much longer than twelve months to do the Knowledge. Equally, I do not believe there should be a purge to let many more 'knowledge boys' become qualified all at once because we all know that the first thing that they do is to head for the Hilton in Park Lane and ply for hire."
   Also again, I can only quote to you what the meeting was told regarding the current length of time to complete the KoL and that was 4years and seven months.

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