Taxi driver ordered to remove Cross of St George from vehicle

Mr Brockhurst has used the vehicle for 4 years and says “The symbols were put on my car to make it stand out. I’m a proud Englishman who has served over 40 years in the military. I have served Queen and country prior to starting my own business. I am supported by the local people, most of whom know me as an ex soldier which is why i wanted to display the flag”.

Shropshire Council say the vehicle is not compliant with the requirement that advertisements on Hackney Carriage vehicles must not include any political symbols, flags or emblems.

Mr Brockhurst says he plans to appeal the decision, but has obliged with the request to remove the symbols.

Councillor Chris Schofield, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for planning and regulatory services said:

“Mr Brockhurst presented his hackney carriage for a routine compliance check when it was noted that his vehicle was displaying England flags on the nearside and offside rear windows and a Union Jack on the bonnet.

“The display of the flags on Mr Brockhurst’s vehicle was reviewed against Shropshire Council’s Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy 2023-2027 and it was found that his vehicle was not compliant with the policy, which clearly states that advertisements on hackney carriage vehicles must not include any political symbols, flags, or emblems.

“Following advice from the Council’s licensing team, Mr Brockhurst acted promptly to remove the flags and the Council is now satisfied that Mr Brockhurst’s vehicle is complaint with the relevant policy requirements.

“If Mr Brockhurst wishes to appeal the Council’s decision, he can do so, and this will be determined in accordance with normal licensing procedures.”

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John Brockhurst tells his story to Ryan Kennedy:

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