Cameras could be added to cabs to boost safety

Taxi drivers could be made to have CCTV cameras installed in their cars in Norwich.

Following the introduction of new laws to improve passenger safety, Norwich City Council is consulting on changes to regulations for both hackney carriages and private hire vehicles.

Alongside cameras, the consultation asks for views on whether drivers should undergo more regular criminal record checks and safeguarding training.

Craig Dimbleby, chairman of the Norwich Black Cabs Association, welcomed the news but said he had wanted improved regulation for some time.

"We've been fighting for this for over a year now," he said.

Referring to a private hire driver who sexually three assaulted women in the city, Mr Dimbleby described safeguarding as "a massive, massive issue and it has to be taken seriously".

Fellow cabbie Kierran Greaves backed the idea of cameras in cars, as they could offer better protection for drivers.

"A year ago I had my window smashed by a customer who didn't want to pay, and we've had customers who run off without paying," he said.

"When it's on camera, there's no disputing the evidence because it's all there to be seen by the police."

But he added that drivers would hope for financial support from the council to help pay for the cameras.

Fflur Jones from the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which has long campaigned for stronger safety rules for taxis, said making CCTV compulsory was "really important":

"It will help if there is evidence of poor behaviour when it comes to reviewing licences and also for victims if they are looking to bring a case to the police."

The city council said no decisions had been made on any changes, and it was still gathering feedback with the consultation open until 16 March.

Matthew Packer, the council's cabinet member for regulatory services, added: "The consultation aims to bring existing regulations up to date with latest guidance from the Department for Transport."

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