A UNION says the introduction of a ranking system for taxi operators could have a positive impact on business.

A ranking scheme is being introduced in Bradford where cab companies will be given a star rating from one to five.

The ratings will be made public to allow customers to make informed decisions about which taxis they use, similar to hygiene ratings on takeaways and restaurants, Bradford Council said.

Andrew Peters of trade union GMB Brighton and Hove taxi section said “maybe having some kind of rating for local operators of taxi and private hire companies would be beneficial” – but added that there were existing standards companies must meet.

He said: “All operators licensed by Brighton and Hove City Council have to adhere to the high standards of specific conditions of licensing known as the ‘blue book’ and are subject to random checks by the council’s enforcement team.

“This ensures that all such operators maintain a high standard.”

But he said that problems could arise when vehicles licensed elsewhere travelled to work in Brighton and Hove, saying the “council has no powers to enforce those conditions or carry out checks” on these operators.

He also said the introduction of any rating system could be a long time in the making as consultations would have to be held first.

Mr Peters said: “We are currently not aware as to whether the council would consider the same type of grading for the local operators here (as in Bradford) and this would have to have a full consultation with the whole trade to ensure that such possible gradings are assessed fairly. One important aspect is that some operators in the UK own the vehicles, such as Addison Lee in London, where it is presumed that such a company has far more responsibility for the vehicle maintenance.

“In Brighton and Hove, this is generally not the case with the bigger companies unless these are individual one-man companies.

“So, while all operators should ensure that vehicle safety is paramount the actual end responsibility for vehicles is that of the self-employed taxi/private hire vehicle proprietors themselves.

“Nonetheless, as the council can currently produce hygiene ratings for local takeaways and eateries then maybe having some kind of rating for taxi operators would be beneficial.”

A Brighton and Hove city Council spokesman said: “We are not considering that particular scheme currently, but we are looking at ways to promote the local trade among the public.”