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TAXI RANKS
TOOLS OF OUR TRADE
See page 2
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Page 2
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
23 April 2014
TAXI RANKS – TOOLS OF OUR TRADE
www.warnersgroup.co.uk
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Lincolnshire PE10 9PH
EDITORIAL
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T
he number of taxi cabs currently licensed is
approximately 22,500, with ranking space for just
2,177, compared to 1970 when there were 8,181 cabs
with 2,797 spaces across the capital.
Over the decades it is clear from the statistics that
both taxi rank provision and review of location (be it
on a full or part time basis) has seriously lagged behind,
while the number of taxis and especially PHV`s have
increased considerably. The ratio of taxis to rank space
is now at approximately 10:1.
That means for every 10 cabs licensed there is just 1
space!
TAXI RANKS VERSUS
THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY
The lack of rank provision has lead more recently to an
ever increasing use of technology by customers more
so at venues where Private Hire operating centres have
been set up within them. This is because the policy
regarding the provision of such satellite offices is not
conditional on a taxi rank being appointed, as part of
the process.
A taxi in the street plying for hire in response to a hail
or found standing on a rank is an immediate hiring. Why
would you need to use technology in order to engage a
taxi when leaving a venue if one is standing outside?
Indeed research carried out by the PCO showed that
people leaving a venue will use taxis on first sight, that’s
assuming of course sight lines at such ranks permit this?
Therefore the positioning of ranks is vital in
maximising their use, particularly at night, where taxi
marshalling combined with a police presence ensures
both passenger and driver safety given that alcohol has
often been consumed prior to travelling home.
Whilst a London taxi driver may carry out pre booked
work, his or her main reason for completing the KoL
to an exacting standard is to gain the right to ply for
hire, and is revered throughout the world for this. Apart
from the taxi itself, taxi ranks are the most important
tool of our trade, for the benefit of both the passengers
and drivers alike. They allow the driver to ply for hire
even when parking restrictions are in operation as well
as providing a high profile “street presence”. This was
identified in the Sinclair Knight Merz Report 2004,
with particular emphasis in relation to the use of taxi
ranks within the suburbs.
Obviously we welcome access to the use of technology.
However we should not be forced increasingly to operate
like private hire drivers due to a lack of investment in
taxi rank provision. Remember technology is relied
upon solely by the Private Hire trade as the method of
engaging with customers. We believe where there is a
will there is a way. If revenue from licence fees cannot
be used for this purpose then the law must change, or
sponsorship or other means must be found. Let`s assume
a taxi rank costs approximately £4000 to appoint. Then
100 will cost £400,000, which is not a lot compared to
money spent on many other projects by TfL given the
mutual benefits for the public and drivers alike. After all
shouldn’t the public have both availability and choice,
especially regarding safer travel at night?
Therefore given the importance of taxi ranks, we
strongly believe that in the interests of openness and
transparency the minutes of all meetings concerning
both the appointment of, and alteration of taxi ranks
should be made available for all to see.
HOW CAN WE FUTURE PROOF
OUR TRADE?
Case law has established that it is the vehicle that plies
for hire, and thus we must remind ourselves that we
exercise our right to ply for hire via the vehicle we drive.
Taxi ranks allow us to park our vehicles unhindered
exercising this right. They also provide additional
benefits in allowing the driver to take physical and
mental breaks from driving around, as well as reducing
fuel consumption not to mention lessening the negative
impact on the environment.
Therefore it is imperative for our future to be assured
that:1 Plying for Hire must be defined in law.
2 A mechanism made available within law for
licensing authorities such as TfL to manage the
growth of their Taxi and Private Hire fleets.
3 The provision of taxi rank space where there is
demand, sufficient to accommodate the number of
drivers/ vehicles licensed within all sectors of (and
including central) London.
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23 April 2014
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Page 3
Page 4
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
23 April 2014
LONDON TAXI UPDATE FROM TfL
NEW TAXI RANK - CLAPHAM COMMON
A new taxi rank in Clapham High Street, near Infernos nightclub, has been
appointed. The rank, which is in a loading bay, is operational between
19:00 and 07:00 and is for nine taxis. This taxi rank is not in a suburban
area and has not been designated as an island rank.
ECCLESTONE PLACE
The direction that taxis face on the first portion of the Ecclestone Place taxi
rank has been reversed so that passengers now board from the nearside and the
wheelchair ramp can be safely used.
LONDON BRIDGE
There have been a number of incidents where taxis have obstructed the entrance
to London Bridge bus station, preventing buses from being able to enter the
station and reach stops and also resulting in bus passengers having to alight at
the entrance to the station instead of at the designated stops.
Taxis obstructing the entrance to London Bridge bus station have a serious
impact on traffic in the area, and prevent taxis, as well as buses, from being able
to enter the station to safely drop-off passengers, and may create a safety risk
for pedestrians.
All taxi drivers are reminded that if there is no space on the taxi rank then
they must move on and not stop or obstruct the station entrance. Enforcement
action is planned to tackle this problem.
There have also been reports of taxi drivers being abusive towards bus
station staff and any reports of abuse or other complaints will be investigated.
NEW TAXI RANK - LEA BRIDGE ROAD
A new taxi rank has been appointed in Lea Bridge Road to serve the Ibis Style
Leyton London Hotel. The rank is opposite the hotel, has space for two taxis
and is operational 24/7.
HARRODS
When the taxi rank in Basil Street (Harrods) is full taxis must not stop or wait
in Basil Street or Hans Crescent, as this obstructs other vehicles and causes
congestion in the area. When the rank is full drivers must move on. Enforcement
activity to prevent any problems is being conducted in this area.
W HOTEL TAXI RANK
A complaint has been received about drivers using the W Hotel taxi rank as a
rest rank and refusing to take fares. This rank (rank number 5016) is not a rest
rank and drivers on the rank must be available for hire.
PANCRAS ROAD CLOSURE
The northern section of Pancras Road will be closed on the following days:
- From 20:00 on Friday 25 April until 18:00 on Sunday 27 April 2014
- From 20:00 on Friday 9 May until 18:00 on Sunday 11 May 2014
Taxis will still be able to access and use the King’s Cross Station taxi rank.
Taxis will also be able to access the St Pancras Station taxi rank on Midland
Road from Goods Way.
CHARING CROSS STATION
We’ve received a complaint about taxi drivers urinating against the wall that
runs between the entrance and exit to the forecourt at Charing Cross Station and
alongside part of the taxi rank. Urinating in the street is unpleasant, unacceptable
and also a criminal offence and we will advise the public to report all such
offences to the police, as well as to TfL, so that the drivers responsible can be
charged and appropriate action taken. Any licensed taxi driver who is charged
and subsequently convicted will have their fitness to remain licensed reviewed.
Information about TfL-appointed rest and refreshment ranks, which provide
spaces for taxi drivers to stop and take a break, is available in the Taxi Ranks
Booklet here http://tfl.gov.uk/cdn/static/cms/documents/taxi-ranks.pdf
There are also taxi meter bays at:
- Bolsover Street - Elizabeth Bridge - Palace Street - Regency Place
- Semley Place - Shepherd Street - Warwick Row
WORLD SERIES TRIATHLON
The World Series Triathlon takes place in Hyde Park between Saturday 31 May
31 and Sunday 1 June 2014. Throughout the event West Carriage Drive will be
closed.
TOUR DE FRANCE
On Monday 7 July 2014 the Tour De France comes to London. Information
about the event can be found on our website http://tfl.gov.uk/campaign/tour-defrance-2014 along with maps of the stage in London:
- Full stage 3 map http://tfl.gov.uk/cdn/static/cms/documents/tour-de-franceroute-map.pdf
- Epping Forest to Stratford http://tfl.gov.uk/cdn/static/cms/documents/tdfepping-forest-stratford.pdf
- Hackney to Canary Wharf http://tfl.gov.uk/cdn/static/cms/documents/tdfhackney-canary-wharf.pdf
- London City Airport to London Bridge http://tfl.gov.uk/cdn/static/cms/
documents/tdf-airport-london-bridge.pdf
- The Highway to the finish at The Mall http://tfl.gov.uk/cdn/static/cms/
documents/tdf-highway-race-finish.pdf
From 10:00 until around 18:00 on Monday 7 July most streets on or around
the race route in London will be closed.
Key strategic roads will remain open all day, including the Rotherhithe and
Blackwall Tunnels. More information about road closures is available online
at http://tfl.gov.uk/campaign/tdf-travel-disruption
RESTORATION OF CHISWICK BRIDGE
Work will begin in April 2014 to strengthen and refurbish the Grade II listed
Chiswick Bridge, restoring the 80 year old structure for continued use by all
road users.
The works are designed to ensure that the bridge remains open at all times.
However, the bridge will be reduced from two lanes to one in both directions
between 10.00 and 16.00 to provide a safe working zone on the footway. There
will also be occasional night time lane closures between 22.00 and 05.00.
A full weekend closure will be required in autumn 2014 to carry out work to
replace the bridge expansion joints, as well as waterproofing and resurfacing
REPORTING ILLEGAL ACTIVITY
If you have information about touting or other illegal activity then you should
report this to us using the online reporting form on our website https://www.tfl.
gov.uk/forms/12368.aspx
If you have information about illegal activities then please let us know as this
is valuable in helping us and the police tackle problems.
WE ARE FSVL
The We Are FSVL event will take place again this year but has now been
extended to two days:
- Saturday 24 May 2014 - Sunday 25 May 2014
The event will be in the same location, Damyns Hall Aerodrome, and we
expect there to be a high demand for taxis.
The event takes place over a Bank Holiday weekend when engineering works
are planned on the Tube and the District line will not be running from Upminster.
With this in mind we expect that there will be a demand for taxis from:
- People arriving at Upminster Station by train and wanting to get to the
festival site before the event starts
- People wanting to take a taxi from the site during the event and at the end
of the event
- People who have made their way from the festival site to Upminster
Station but then want to take a taxi somewhere else as the Tube is not
running
There will be taxi marshals at Upminster Station and also the festival site and
a large space set aside in the dedicated transport hub for taxis.
This year the taxi rank and taxi drop off area will be accessible from Aveley
Road. There will also be a one-way system in place to make it easier and quicker
to drive to and from the site and help reduce congestion on the surrounding roads.
UPCOMING EVENTS
FA Cup Final, Wembley Stadium: Saturday 17 May 2014
Chelsea Flower Show: Tuesday 20 May - Saturday 24 May 2014
Arctic Monkeys, Finsbury Park: Friday 23 - Saturday 24 May 2014
Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439
23 April 2014
mm – ½ page vertical advert
Remember – You saw it288
firstxin111
the Globe!
TfL INVITES TRADE
TO HELP SHAPE
REGULATORY
FRAMEWORK FOR TAXI
AND PRIVATE HIRE APPS
• Smart phone apps offer significant potential
benefits to passengers, drivers and operators
• TfL sets out provisional position and invites
trades to help shape regulation of this rapidly developing area
Transport for London (TfL) welcomes the use of taxi and private hire apps to
benefit passengers, subject to those apps meeting the high standards of public
safety TfL expects.
Now TfL is inviting the taxi (and private hire) trade to provide their views
on how the regulatory framework should be applied to this rapidly developing
technology, while ensuring that the current highest standards of public safety
and customer service in the trades are maintained.
In a press statement, TfL says: “The development of taxi and private
hire booking apps offer tremendous potential benefits for customers. This
includes enhanced safety and security measures - with many apps providing
the passenger with a photo of the driver and their name, the registration of
the vehicle and the ability to track both the approach of the vehicle and the
remainder of the journey in real time. However, the rapid pace at which
smart phone based technology has been developing in recent years has led
to a need for clarity about what is required in order for apps to comply with
the regulatory framework in London. TfL is seeking to clarify that position
and has asked the taxi and private hire trades for their input to formalise
the regulatory framework and ensure there is a level playing field for all
operators.”
Constructive meetings were held recently with both the taxi and private
hire trades on this issue. Discussions focused on the use of apps for private
hire vehicle bookings, with TfL presenting its provisional views on the use of
apps, which are as follows:
• While it is perfectly legal for an app to put a customer directly in touch
with a licensed hackney carriage driver, any app that puts a customer
directly in touch with a private hire driver without the booking being
accepted by an operator first is illegal. Even if the licensed driver is
also a licensed operator, the booking must be accepted at the licensed
premises. A booking cannot be accepted by a private hire operator in a
vehicle or through a mobile phone on the street
• Apps can put a customer in touch with licensed private hire operators,
either by signposting a customer to a choice of licensed operators or by
transmitting a customer’s data directly to a specific licensed operator.
Apps that deliver this service do not in themselves ‘make provision’ for
the invitation or acceptance of private hire bookings. Only a licensed
operator can ‘make provision’ for the invitation or acceptance of a
booking
• Certain details, such as the date of the booking, must be recorded by
operators before the start of each journey. There is no obligation to
record the main destination at the time of booking unless it is specified
by the customer
• There is no obligation to quote a fare when making a booking via a
private hire app unless a quote is requested
• Smart phones used by private hire drivers - which act as GPS tracking
devices to measure journey distances and relay information so that
fares can be calculated remotely from the vehicle - do not constitute the
equipping of a vehicle with a taxi meter
Further discussion with the taxi and private hire trades will take place in
the coming weeks to help clarify the regulatory framework for this rapidly
developing technology to ensure that the current highest standards of public
safety and customer service in the trades are maintained.
Page 5
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– Telephone – 01778
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3
25/06/2012 16:04
Page 6
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
23 April 2014
APP ADVICE: ACCEPTING MINIMUM FARES
F
or those of you who have not taken Hailo
jobs since the change to our Minimum Fare
structure, here’s how it’s done.
Enter the meter fare as you have always done.
If the fare is below the minimum, you will be
prompted in the app that a minimum is in effect.
If this is the case, click the yellow “Charge £10
Minimum” button.
Example: If you enter a £7 fare, and there is a
20% tip, the fare will show as a total of £8.40,
which is under the minimum. In this instance,
click the yellow button and the customer will be
charged the £10 only.
If the price is above the minimum fare, do
nothing differently at all. If in doubt what the
minimum fare was when you were offered the
job, you will be reminded again after the ‘Take
Payment’ screen. (See blue arrow above)
For jobs under a fiver between 10am5pm, Monday-Friday
If the is fare between £2.40 and £5 you will get
this message:
As we’ll automatically be
making up the £5 to you, just
ignore this message and press
continue.
No drivers will get less than
£5 on jobs that are cleared
for less than this. Hailo will
automatically make up the
difference to you in your weekly statements.
Any questions? Go chat feedback in the app and
one of the team will get back to you.
It’s Quiet
Many drivers are concerned that it’s quiet out
there. We want to kick-start passengers into
using Black Cabs again by doing a social media
campaign to all Hailo customers to urge them
back into the back seats of our cabs. With the
change of the current Hailo minimum fare can
only mean one thing - we get busier!
Listening To You
Drivers have questioned our decision to increase
the Hailo minimum fare back in October last year.
Some said that we drove passengers away while
some liked the new higher charges. We have run
extensive data tests which showed that it had a
negative impact in the off-peak periods. This is
something that needed amending. We believed it
was the right thing to do at that particular time
but we need to be open to doing the right thing
going forward. Changing means that we can act
quickly and swiftly to put things right for all
concerned. Drivers told us that the minimum fare
was wrongly set and they were busier when it was
lower. Yes of course we won’t all agree on the
change but we listened to you and we have taken
action that will be the best for everyone.
Listening To Our Passengers
It’s not only important to listen to our thousands
of drivers but we also listen to the people that
pay all of us. Passengers are important of course
as without them we have no work and without
us they have no taxis. It’s a tricky balance but a
balance that we can, and will, get right. There’s
no shadow of a doubt that London’s taxi users
want YOU to pick them up. Why - simple, one
reason is that we have all done the Knowledge
of course which is a massive advantage to our
less professional opposition as we can change
direction without consulting a sat nav. Passengers
are always amazed at our knowledge of London
streets. Add the fact that we can exclusively use
Bus Lanes and this makes us the quickest doorto-door service bar none. Another major factor is
that passengers feel safe. We carry out millions
of fares per year and passengers know that
when they get into a London taxi they know we
have had stringent tests into our backgrounds to
promote their safety.
Amending the Hailo minimum fare will prompt
them to reignite our mutual respect into using us
again in their thousands.
Keeping Ahead Of The Competition
If you’ve read my previous blogs I’ve constantly
banged the drum in alerting you about our
competition. Both the major players have stepped
up their game, Uber are throwing passenger credit
around like confetti. Will they eventually have to
stop giving money away like this? Maybe, but not
for a long long time. Addison Lee, on the other
hand have introduced a saloon car service to look
slicker and more professional. In the meantime
we have to stay competitive and fight back.
That doesn’t mean that we have to make major
sacrifices. After all, we still have a £10 Hailo
minimum at our busiest times, the rush hours and
right through the night.
Driving More Jobs To You
Add all the above points together and we feel that
adjusting the minimum fare is the right choice to
drive more jobs to our taxis. It’s not going to be
pretty and not everyone will be over the moon if
we get a local. Yes, of course we are not always
going to be happy but we have to have a wider
vision on where we want our trade to be in the
coming months, even years.
The Summary
Together we can continue to bring passengers
back to our cabs. Hailo’s mission is to get more
work for drivers. We are the best. We know where
we’re going on the street and we know where
we are going in relation to our business. Prepare
to be busier across the board, especially with
the exciting news that Hailo for Business that’s
almost ready to roll out, will make further inroads
to the lucrative corporate work that we all crave.
Let’s make our competitors tremble, let’s keep
our work, let’s give the public a top class service
and persuade them to use us today, tomorrow and
in the future.
It’s our trade to keep so let’s keep it!
Russell Hall, Founder
HAILO | The Strand, London, WC2R 1LA
Somerset House
email: [email protected] mob: 07740 280018
skype: hall.russell
ADDISON LEE AQUIRES LONDON EXECUTIVE
Private hire company London Executive has been acquired by Addison
Lee. The move increases their luxury fleet capacity with an additional 130
cars, creating the largest fleet of Mercedes in London. Liam Griffin, CEO of
Addison Lee, said: ‘We are delighted to welcome London Executive to the
Addison Lee family. London Executive’s passion for high quality service
and corporate client base are a natural fit with Addison Lee’s Exec services.
The acquisition of London Executive is another chapter in the story of
Addison Lee’s on-going success story. Our new and existing customers will
now have access to London’s largest fleet of Mercedes vehicles, supported
by our award winning smartphone apps and world leading technology.”
Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439
23 April 2014
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
Page 7
020 8692 1122
AscottCab.com
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Page 8
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
23 April 2014
ALBANY TAXI CHARITY
T
his year’s outing to Hastings will take place on Monday 9th June and
to Herne bay on Wednesday 9th July. Any drivers who can help out
on either or both of these outings would be warmly welcomed – telephone
Ray Ali on 07779 798872
The Albany charity is also looking for new committee members. If you
are interested please contact Gary Mankelow on 07737763846.
Applicants may obtain on request, a quotation in writing about the terms on which we are prepared to do business.
All loans are subject to status. Minimum age 18.
Allan Reece Associates for Financial, Mortgage, Investment and Insurance Services.
York House, Western Road, Romford, Essex RM1 3LP. Authorised & Regulated by the
Financial Services Authority. Licensed under the Consumer Credit Act 1974
Allan Reece.indd 1
24/2/10 12:24:47
LONDON TAXIDRIVERS’ FUND FOR
LONDON TAXIDRIVERS’ FUND FOR
UNDERPRIVILEGED CHILDREN
NOTICE
TO
ALL
DRIVERS
THURSDAY 10th JULY 2014
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA
We welcome you to join us on our legendary outing to Southendon-Sea, giving 300 ‘special needs’ and underprivileged children a
fun-packed day.
Prizes will be given for the best decorated taxis and
to the driver wearing the best fancy dress
In case you have any doubts, we welcome all drivers with liveried
taxis, coloured taxis and those that have adverts on. This applies
to all our outings.
As well as giving a great deal of pleasure to so many children, we
promise you will have a brilliant and fun-filled day out.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
WITHOUT YOU THERE ARE NO OUTINGS
SO PLEASE CONTACT OUR DRIVERS' LIAISON:
Steve Bell on 07811 508772
OR ENTER YOUR DETAILS ON THE VOLUNTEER PAGE OF OUR
WEBSITE AT www.ltfuc.org.uk
The Hon. President, Hon. Chairman and
Committee look forward to seeing you.
“None walks so Tall as he who Stoops to help a Child”
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23 April 2014
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
Page 9
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Cricklewood 714.indd 1
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Our services include:
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– Annual confidential meeting
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24/07/2013 10:52
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See us at: Unit 6, Quebec Wharf, 14
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email: [email protected]
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Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439
Page 10
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
23 April 2014
WHCD UPDATE
MILITARY AWARD FOR 2014
The WCHCD is proud of its affiliations with
both the Royal Docks School and its Military
Affiliation with 20 Transport Squadron. Each
year presentations are made to both, with the one
to the school being later in the year at their annual
Prize Giving. But the Military Award is presented
in the Spring and at the lunch following the
Royal Charter Presentation, this year’s recipient
was given his Award. The Company presents its
Military Award Shield to a serviceman or woman,
who in the opinion of the Officer Commanding, 20
Transport Squadron, has shown the most progress
and made the most meaningful contribution the
work of the Squadron. This is what Major Phil
Ritchie said about the recipient of this year’s
award. “Lance Corporal Rogerson is second in
command of a section of soldiers in 20 Transport
Squadron, The Royal Logistic Corps and has
shown himself to be an exemplary soldier. He is
a highly motivated and charismatic soldier who
leads from the front, always setting an excellent
example to others. He is equally at home in the
field and in barracks, excelling in every task
he is given. LCpl Rogerson is an extremely fit
soldier, having represented the Squadron in the
RLC cross country championships. Furthermore,
he has been recommended to attend the Physical
Training Instructor Course after which he
will have a positive impact on the training and
development of the soldiers in the future. He has
completed many tasks in support of the Royal
Household, transporting the Royal Family’s
personal belongings between Royal residences
including: Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle,
Sandringham and Balmoral Castle. He has
successfully passed the Advanced Staff Car
Driver Course and has been selected to drive the
Chief of the General Staff, the General Officer
Commanding London District and other high
ranking military officers.
“LCpl Rogerson has taken an active role in
charity events raising money for Help for Heroes
and assisting residents of the Colchester Care
Home for the Elderly, he has done this voluntarily
and demonstrates his benevolent character. He
is well respected by his peers and his Officer
Commanding and has recently been selected to
wear the rank of acting Lance Corporal, ahead
of his time. He is a young soldier with a bright
future ahead of him. LCpl Rogerson is the very
best of his peer group and a credit to himself,
20 Transport Squadron and the Royal Logistic
Corps.”
Master of WCHCD Graham Woodhouse was
delighted to give this Award. He said: “LCpl
Rogerson has been singled out by his Commanding
Officer to receive the Worshipful Company of
Hackney Carriage Drivers Military Award. I call
upon Lance Corporal Bradley Rogerson to come
forward and receive his very well deserved award
with our hearty congratulations and admiration,”
before making the presentation.
ANNUAL UNITED
GUILDS SERVICE
On 4th April the
WCHCD were pleased
to join with many other
Livery Companies for
the annual United Guilds Service at St Paul’s
Cathedral. There are 109 livery companies in the
City today, the oldest of which trace their history
back to medieval trade guilds, with 26,000
liverymen and 15,500 freemen overall. The first
United Guilds Service was held 71 years ago, in
1943. Then much of London was a bomb site and
this service was introduced to raise morale. The
area around St Paul’s now shows little evidence
of the devastation that was all around St Paul’s
in 1943; back in February 1943 it was a different
scene as the Master and Prime Wardens of the
Twelve Great companies held a meeting at the
Goldsmiths’ Hall and decided to hold a service in
St Paul’s Cathedral for the Livery Companies and
Guilds of the City of London. The thought behind
this was that the service would help lift the spirits
of the city following the Blitz during the Second
World War.
WCHC FIRST 104
CLUB DRAW
The inaugural 104
Prize Club Draw was
made following the
recent Spring Court
Meeting of Worshipful
Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers. The
prizes were as follows:
1st prize: Ticket no 21 – winning £157.50
2nd prize: Ticket no 68 – winning £94.50
3rd prize: Ticket no 17- winning £63
Monies raised from the 104 Club go to the
WCHCD Charity Trust. Throughout the year,
on behalf of the membership, the Trustees of
the Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage
Drivers’ Charity Trust have made donations to
various trade charities, the families of deceased
members and when appropriate, to company
members or members of the London trade who
have experienced long term financial difficulties.
Michael Davies is the Chairman of the Charity
Trust. He says: “During the last year we have
received many such requests and had to pay out
more than we have received. The trustees have
therefore decided to offer members a much
more interesting giving option. We have now
introduced the 104 Club Draw.” Those who join
have the opportunity to win quarterly cash prizes,
which in a year will equate to 30% of the money
given. Members of the Company, their families
and friends can donate just £5 per month (paid
quarterly) to join, and the more members who are
enrolled, the bigger the prizes become. You do
not have to belong to the WCHCD to join the 104
Club and further details can be obtained from The
Clerk, Mary Whitworth by email wchcd@tiscali.
co.uk or by telephone 01494 765922.
NEW LIVERYMEN AND FREEMEN
JOIN WCHCD
Due to the Royal
Charter Presentation
event on 3rd April,
the
Worshipful
Company of Hackney
Keith Lawrey
Carriage
Drivers
held a Spring Court
Meeting and lunch
this year instead of a
dinner. At this time,
the Company was
delighted to welcome Reverend Dr Martin Dudley
two new Honorary
Liverymen,
the
Reverend Dr Martin
Dudley and Mr Keith
Lawrey. Three new
Liverymen
were Liverymen, Mr John Ford,
Mr Lee Hilligenn and
also clothed: Mr
Mr Peter Johansen
John Ford, Mr Lee
Hilligenn and Mr
Peter Johansen. Three
new members joined
as Freemen: Mr David
Collins, Mr Richard
Mr David Collins, Mr
Langley and Mr John
Richard Langley
Ward. On behalf of
and Mr John Ward.
the Company, Master
Graham Woodhouse was delighted to carry out
the formalities before welcoming all of them.
If you would like further details about
the Company and becoming a member,
please either visit the website, www.
hackneycarriagedriverscompany.com
and
complete the contact form or telephone the Clerk,
Mary Whitworth, on 01494 765922.
Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439
23 April 2014
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
Page 11
The Vito Taxi
A Daimler Brand
Setting the standards in driver comfort, space and fuel efficiency.
Discover more of the benefits online.
www.vitotaxi.co.uk/tg
*Finance for business users only. Vehicle shown for illustrative purposes only. Example based on a Vito 113 CDI Taxi including first registration fee, RFL and delivery at a price of
£42,370.00 incl VAT on a Mercedes-Benz Finance Agility contract with a customer deposit of £4,000.00 incl VAT followed by 48 monthly payments of £588.14 and an optional final
payment of £15,175.00. Finance based on 30,000 miles per annum. VAT is charged at the prevailing rate. Credit provided subject to status. Offer is subject to terms and conditions.
Vehicles must be registered between 01/04/2014 and 30/06/2014. Monthly terms apply, weekly terms for illustration purposes. Offer subject to availability. Finance provided by
Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Ltd, MK15 8BA. Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the Vito Taxi range: urban 27.7 (10.2) – 31.4 (9),
extra urban 40.4 (7) – 42.8 (6.6), combined 34.5 (8.2) – 38.2 (7.4). CO2 emissions: 216-195 g/km. Based on the Vito Taxi range. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for
comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors.
12601 MEC Q1 TAXI Globe 265x338 (8) SS.indd 1
Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439
14/04/2014 10:35
Page 12
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
23 April 2014
POLICE APPEAL
GLOBAL LEADERS SIGN UP TO
olice are currently investigating an
£31M PLAN TO DEMONSTRATE
P
allegation of assault made by a male who
said that following a night in Funky Buddha
VIABILITY OF HYDROGEN VEHICLES nightclub, Berkeley Street, he and another
L
the multi million pound project, which has been
signed up to by BMW, Daimler, Honda, Hyundai,
Toyota and hydrogen fuel companies including
Air Products, Copenhagen Hydrogen Network,
ITM Power, Linde, OMV. Other signatories
include Element Energy, PE INTERNATIONAL,
the Institute for Innovative Technology and
the European Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Joint
Undertaking. The motor manufacturers who are
part of this project are working on developing and
demonstrating hydrogen powered fuel cell cars.
The prospect of these becoming more widely
available is now seen as increasingly likely as
the currently high cost of the technology falls and
hydrogen powered vehicles become affordable.
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: “To
sell this technology we need to show Londoners
and the wider world that it is not science fiction.
By building the vehicles and the filling stations
and allowing people to kick the tyres we will
be able to demonstrate that hydrogen is a viable
option and that London is at the forefront of
efforts to make it so.”
Please contact DC Jo DELL
SC&O2 - Sapphire Command
Holborn Police Station,
10 Lambs Conduit Street,
London, WC1N 3NR
Phone: 020 8733 6625
E-mail: [email protected]
■ TYRES ■ SERVICES ■ DIAGNOSTICS ■ RUNNING REPAIRS ■ OVERHAULS ■ MOTS ■ ELECTRICAL ■ RECOVERY
MUSHERS TAXI GARAGE
■ RENTALS
■ MOT
■ TX1 Servicing from £45
■ TX2 Timing chain £450
■ TX2 Servicing from £50
■ TX4 timing belt and service £380
■ TX4 Servicing from £55
■ TX2 Rockers £450
■ Brake pads £35
■ Mercedes Vitos
UNIT 4A GRAVES ESTATE, LEIGH PLACE, WELLING, KENT DA2 7EN ■ 0208 316 6008
■ OVERHAULS ■ MOTS ■ ELECTRICAL ■ RECOVERY
■ TYRES ■ SERVICES ■ DIAGNOSTICS ■ RUNNING REPAIRS
eading motor manufacturers, hydrogen fuel
suppliers, the Mayor of London’s Office and
energy consultancies from around the globe are
signing up to the HyFive project, the largest of its
kind in Europe. Five different manufacturers have
agreed to deploy a total of 110 hydrogen fuel cell
vehicles at several European locations (Bolzano,
Copenhagen, Innsbruck, London, Munich,
Stuttgart) and develop new clusters of hydrogen
refuelling stations. Locations are being sought for
three new hydrogen refuelling stations in London,
one in Aarhus and in Odense (Denmark) and one
in Innsbruck (Austria). They are expected to
be operational by 2015, by which time some of
the manufacturers in the partnership will have
started to put hydrogen fuelled cars on sale in
some European markets. Using hydrogen gas as
a fuel to generate electric power the revolutionary
vehicles produce no harmful tailpipe emissions –
only water vapour. They have the potential to be
more than twice as fuel-efficient as conventionally
powered vehicles and operate very quietly.
The Mayor of London’s Office is coordinating
male got in a cab and were taken to GOWER
STREET.
Officers are trying to locate the driver of the
cab which took these males as he could hold
vital information. The details are as follows:
Date: 2nd February 2014
Time: 0230 - 0300 hours
From: Possibly Berkeley Square area
To: Gower Street area. The male states
they were dropped off just past the British
Museum
Passengers: Two males - one is American
and thin in appearance. The other was a dark
haired male who had the appearance of being
possibly from Southern Europe. This second
male paid the fare.
TYRES ■ SERVICES ■ DIAGNOSTICS ■ RUNNING REPAIRS ■ OVERHAULS ■ MOTS ■ ELECTRICAL ■ RECOVERY
Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439
23 April 2014
EARN
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
before you even
put the key in
the ignition
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Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439
Page 13
Page 14
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
CABBIES, EVERY TIME YOU BRING CUSTOMERS
TO SECRETS YOU WILL RECEIVE THE WHOLE
AMOUNT THEY PAY TO GAIN ENTRY
SECRETS 1
Hammersmith
62 Glenthorne Road,
London W6 0LR.
Mon to Sat 8pm - 4am
on
ust days
E
s
n
Su
ret
SecOpen 4am
to
w
No 8pm
SECRETS 2
Swiss Cottage
309 Finchley Road,
London NW3 6EH.
Mon to Sat 8pm - 4am
Kingston & Wimbledon Taxis
Taxi MOT check and testing from March 2013
Fast fit servicing appointments for TXI, TXII & TX4
Mechanical repairs & servicing
Lucus & Cygnus meter agents please book & bring your log book
Garage services open Mon/Fri- 8am to 5.30pm
& Sat 9am-12.30pm
Taxis for hire from £170.00,
all taxis available from our large fleet.
Follow us on twitter
@SecretsclubsLdn
LONDON
SECRETS 3
Holborn
3 Grays Inn Road,
London WC1X 8HG.
Mon to Fri 7.30pm - 3.30am
Table and Pole Dancing
Nightclubs & Late Night Bars
★ Hundreds of the Best Looking & Hottest
Table and Pole Dancers in London
SECRETS 4
Tower Bridge
43-45 East Smithfield
(Nr Tower Bridge)
London E1W 1AP.
Mon to Sat 8pm to 3.30am
TX2 Battery £85.00 + VAT Tyres £52.00 + VAT
Bodyshop for accident repairs.
Non fault accident specialists-no excess to pay.
We buy all Taxis at top prices.
★ Great Music, terrific atmosphere and
friendly, helpful and attentive staff
★ Ladies and mixed parties are
always welcome
★ Luxurious VIP Booths
★ Dress Code: Smart/Smart Casual
SECRETS 5
Euston
We will beat or match any price on any taxi job
We now sell maxxis taxi tyres from £50.00 + VAT
34/38 Eversholt Street,
London
NW1 1DA.
Mon to Sat 8pm to 6am
Sunday 8pm to 4am
The Dell, Clayton Road, Chessington, KT9 1NN
Just off the A3, at the Hook turn off
SECRETS 6
Covent Garden
0208 391 1600 [email protected]
WWW.TAXIGARAGE.CO.UK
51 Parker Street,
London
WC2B 5PS.
Mon to Sat 7
5pm - 3am
Secrets (Wilton).indd 1
10/07/2013 11:47:28
London Cab Hire Ltd
CRASH REPAIR CENTRE
WE GUARANTEE TO
BEAT ANY PRICE
Cab rentals • Non fault accidents
Replacing panels
Free estimate on any jobs
Body repair and all spray work
Free replacement vehicle
Full mechanical work undertaken
16a Cudworth St, Bethnal Green, London, E1 5QU
Tel: 020 7456 1077 Email: [email protected]
Ezel 723 QP.indd 1
23 April 2014
Kington v2_QP-720.indd 1
17/10/2013 10:10:07
LONDON NAMED
THIRD MOST POPULAR
DESTINATION IN
THE WORLD
F
ollowing
a
recordbreaking
year
for
London tourism, the capital
has been rated third in the
world in TripAdvisor 2014
Travellers’ Choice awards for
Destinations.
Gordon Innes, the Chief
Executive of London &
Partners, said, “London has had a blockbuster year, experiencing a
surge in tourists not seen before by any other post-Olympic host city in
the world. We’re delighted that London has again been recognised by
millions as one of the best places on earth to come and visit. During the
last year we’ve seen record numbers of visitors to the capital, who have
enjoyed everything our great city has to offer. Whether it’s to explore the
newly opened Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, or to enjoy some of the
top attractions including the second most popular cultural institution in
the world, the British Museum, London is fast becoming known as the
greatest place in the world to visit.”
25/11/2013 10:56:58
Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise
in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439
23 April 2014
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
Page 15
RadioTaxis New Deal
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onlypay for what you do!
● Join us free
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● Or fixed subs alternative:
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To join call Tracey or Sandra on: 020 7272 2626
Or Email: [email protected]
Visit our website: www.radiotaxis.co.uk/apply-to-join
The world’s first CarbonNeutral® taxi company
Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439
Page 16
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
23 April 2014
THE LONDON TAXI COMPANY
Taxi Globe is pleased to have been given the opportunity to performance of each model and relaunched with a more streamlined and
interview The London Taxi Company’s Marketing Manager, simpler choice of two TX4 vehicle classes – Style (basic) and Elegance
(premium).” The updated TX4 STYLE AND TX4 ELEGANCE went on
Nyasha Pitt.
W
JOINING LONDON TAXIS INTERNATIONAL
hen we first asked Nyasha (or Asha for
short) if she would be prepared to talk
to our reporter, she was delighted to have been
offered the opportunity to share her experiences
of working for the company since joining in
2010, including her viewpoint of the ups and
downs in the company’s fortunes. Back in
September of that year, Asha joined the then
London Taxis International as UK Marketing
Manager. The role has proved challenging
through the changes within the company and
of course the administration period. When
you meet Asha, her enormous energy and
enthusiasm for her role shines through. London Taxis International had
been an iconic brand for many years when Asha joined; Taxi Globe asked
her what attracted her to the position and what her thoughts were at that
time of her appointment, as well as what changes have been implemented
since then. “To be honest, although I was aware that ‘black cabs’ were made
in Coventry, prior to seeing the marketing role advertised, I hadn’t really
given it much thought. Black cabs were sort of like buses to my friends and
family – they just exist; no one outside of the industry really gives much
thought as to how and where they are made.
“I had previously worked for property developers, Land Securities,
marketing a challenging portfolio in Corby. Although I loved my job there,
I wanted to move closer to home, but only for the right role. When I saw the
advert for the UK Marketing role for such an iconic brand, coupled with the
fact that it was in my home town, I applied immediately. I remember being
surprised at the hand-made assembly of the vehicle when I first started – I
simply assumed that there would robots building the cabs, so seeing real
people fitting every element really interested me.”
NEW MODEL LAUNCH
One of the first events where the taxi trade press met Asha was at Brewery
Road in November 2010, when the new model launch by the re-branded
London Taxi Company took place. LTI Vehicles and Mann & Overton
announced their new trading name at this event and trading began under the
new name of The London Taxi Company. At the time, some of the trade press
pointed out that London Taxis International had historically been known
in the trade as LTI; now the company did not want the name shortened,
although today this has happened and it is being called LTC. We asked Asha
what had changed the mindset about the name and she told us: “I’d like to
set the record straight – personally, as long as our customers know who they
are talking about, I’ve always been completely relaxed about what they
call us (assuming it’s clean!). At the time though, there was concern that
the company had had so many different names in the past that we should
impress upon the trade media that abbreviations were not allowed. It was
also enforced internally – which made for some very, very long computer
file names!
“Nowadays, we have more of an M&S attitude to our name. This is
probably for the best, as I still talk to people in Coventry who insist on
calling us Carbodies!”
So a new era began - with a new logo to go on a new model range. When
asked about the marketing strategy behind this move Asha told us: “The
rationale was simple – we reviewed the previous range, looked at the sales
sale. During the coming months, things were challenging for LTC but the
marketing department continued working hard to promote the taxi and the
branding. Asha told us of the hard work behind the scenes to get the sales
increased, particularly with her remit of the UK. “Given the change in the
economic climate, it’s always difficult to extol the virtues of investing large
sums of money in any consumable. However, that was the job that we had
to do.”
MAJOR CHANGES
Then in the Spring of 2011 came the news that in a stock market announcement
the company said it was being pursued for alleged financial losses suffered
by the taxi drivers following the incident. More than 5,000 taxis had been
recalled in 2008 following 12 under-bonnet fires in early production models
of the TX4. Asha said: “That was a really difficult situation, given the legal
ramifications, which meant that we were not in a position to comment or give
advice to the affected drivers, which was extremely frustrating. Marketing
is all about communication, however, this was a situation, albeit for very
good reasons, that we were and are still unable to talk about.”
It was clear throughout the next twelve months that the company was
going through some major changes. In 2012 sales were still not as high
as the company would have liked due to the economic climate across
the country. The taxi trade in London was facing new demands from the
licensing authority to drive cleaner vehicles and the new Euro 5 taxi went
on sale in the autumn of 2012. Offers and deals were being given to entice
drivers into choosing a new TX4; the Mercedes Vito had been launched in
2008 but LTC maintained more sales than its competitor. For the marketing
department, the new cleaner TX4 meant they had a cleaner vehicle to tell
drivers about, albeit at an increased cost. Asha told us how her department
was working to increase sales. “We realised that as well as taxi trade
press advertising, we really needed to work harder at establishing longterm, beneficial relationships with our customers. This is an ethos that we
absolutely retain today.”
Then late in 2012 came the news of the steering box problems, together
with the recall which saw so many cabs come off the road. The announcement
came in London just as the annual Magical Taxi Tour was about to set off
and some of the taxis on the trip were affected by the recall. LTC has been
extremely supportive of the trip for many years and Asha had come down
to London for the Breakfast Send Off. This was curtailed and she was on a
late train back to Coventry to lead the customer call-outs from the Contact
Centre. Although this was a difficult time for the owners and drivers, Asha
and her team at Coventry were manning the phones to try and answer
questions and get remedial work booked in. Asha said how challenging
this was for the company. “It was an extremely trying time for everyone
involved. It is a testament to our customers that the vast majority, although
understandably angry and upset by the situation, dealt with us both politely
and patiently.”
On Monday 22nd October came the bad news that the company had gone
into administration and once again Asha found her role challenging. Noone knew who would be the new owners; no-one knew who would keep
their job – if anyone. The marketing team was involved with helping the
administrators during their quest to find new owners. Asha told us of those
difficult weeks. “We had to support PriceWaterhouse Coopers in order for
them to collate as much information on the company as possible. PwC had
an unenviable job to do; however, they were professional and sensitive
throughout this extremely difficult time. They helped to save a British
institution and more than 150 jobs – no mean feat at all.”
Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439
23 April 2014
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
Page 17
NEW OWNERS
The rest, to coin a phrase, is now history with the new owners being Geely.
Asha was one of the team who retained their job and now the work has begun
to restore faith in both the company and the product. Asha is one of the first
to admit this is no easy task but she also told us that in general owners and
drivers were supportive during the administration period. She said: “One of
the things that the media and tourists in particular will comment on is the
personality of the average London Taxi driver. Professional, knowledgeable
London Taxi drivers are a national institution in their own right and they are
also one of the reasons that I love my job so much. Our VP Peter Johansen
has commented on several occasions that we are nothing without the drivers
and this is a message that runs through everything that we do now. We’ve
made a lot of progress in the last 12 or so months, but we want to do a lot
more to continue to develop relationships with our customers.”
and taxi trade press. The support shown by
the many invited guests who arrived to see
the ribbon cutting at this event shows the
feeling the iconic taxi evokes in the UK and
it was interesting to hear the Chairman from
Geely talking of his passion for the product.
Asha commented on this launch event: “It
was an absolutely brilliant day! We knew
that we would have a lot of media interest, but we were overwhelmed by the
final levels of attendance from national and trade journalists. It was really
important that we celebrated this occasion, for staff and for the trade, as well
as reinforcing that the iconic Black Cab is still and will continue to be made
in Coventry in the UK. It’s something that we should not take for granted –
it‘s part of our national heritage.”
MAGICAL TAXI TOUR
In 2013, Asha was thrilled to be one of the
drivers taking part in the Magical Taxi Tour
and looked after a family for the weekend. She
said the trip was an amazing experience for
her and that it also taught her much about the
product she sells. Taxi owners complain about
design features on the taxi such as the seats not
being comfortable for a long day in the cab;
Asha has now been able to experience the good and the bad that the TX4
drivers talk about. She said: “This was the first time that I and fellow LTC
colleagues had sat for an extended period of time in one of our vehicles, so
one of the first things we did on our return was feedback our comments and
experiences to the design team responsible for the future London Taxi, due
out in 2018.
“That’s the great thing about the new company – not only can we feed
information back to improve the London Taxi, but we now have the money,
thanks to Geely, to do something about it!”
Hopefully the continued support for the charity work of the Magical Taxi
Tour will also give the team at LTC an insight into things which can be
improved.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
Looking forward to the future, Asha told us about the new management at
the Coventry offices and factory as well as the dealerships. The marketing
department is a public facing department and the trade is never slow to
complain loudly. The trade used to be involved with the Listening Programme
which was designed to help the company learn more about the views of the
trade about their product; Asha says: “We had a fairly good perspective on the
previous company’s failures and weaknesses, but it never hurts to check back
with customers. Although we have not restarted the Listening Programme
per se, we have had and continue to hold customer forums across the UK,
from Edinburgh to London. Also, it’s easier than ever for customers to get in
touch, whether that’s via social media, email or simply picking up the phone.
They key to ensuring that feedback keeps coming is to listen, understand and
ensure that we respond. Customer interaction and engagement takes up a
vast amount of time, but it’s worth every second.”
The fact that the executives are now prepared to go out and meet taxi
owners and drivers is a good thing; perhaps one of the faults previously lay
in the fact Coventry seemed to be removed from what was going on in the
trade in London. The new owners are keen to ensure the iconic taxi is still
built in the UK for the UK market but sales elsewhere in the world are also
a key part of the future of the company. “Our mission is to recognised as the
leading global provider of purpose-built London Taxis, so building on our
International sales success is an absolute must for us.” said Asha.
The years that Asha has been working for the company have been some
of the most challenging ones in its history but she is confident that going
forward the company will succeed. She enjoys her role and is always happy
to talk to owners and drivers too. “Despite working in many other interesting
and challenging sectors throughout my career so far, there is something
special and wonderfully unique about the taxi trade. I now can’t imagine
working anywhere else!”
RE-STARTING PRODUCTION
Last year saw the factory in Coventry re-start
production and Asha was on hand at the event
attended by RT Hon MP Vince Cable, Business
Secretary, to launch this new era. Having seen
so many changes over the past twelve months,
the news that production was to begin again
was welcomed in all quarters, both mainstream
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Page 18
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
23 April 2014
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23 April 2014
Remember – You saw it first in the Globe!
Page 19
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Page 20
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23 April 2014
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