In 2023, a record number of complaints were made against taxi and other private hire drivers, totaling 1,782 for the year, with a significant portion related to the failure to provide cashless payment as required by law since September 2022. Despite the increase in complaints, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has not utilized its power to suspend drivers under the demerit system established in 2013, with no demerit offences endorsed in the past decade. On-the-spot fines issued to drivers also rose by 11% in 2023, with nearly half attributed to poor vehicle standards, while a notable increase in SPSV licence applications suggests a growing interest in the industry among younger demographics.
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Disposable vapes officially banned in the UK from today
As of June 1, 2025, disposable vapes are banned across the UK, affecting all retailers and online sales, due to environmental concerns and rising youth usage. The ban, which targets single-use devices like Elfbar and Lost Mary, aims to reduce plastic waste and prevent nicotine addiction among young people, with penalties for non-compliance reaching unlimited fines or jail time. While reusable vapes remain available, there are concerns from industry advocates about potential increases in smoking...
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