The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) has been using local media to urge parents to check the operators licenses and insurance before letting their children travel in the vehicles. The warning comes following a number of crackdowns in London and other parts of the country – officers are telling the industry there are plenty more to come.

A recent operation saw more than 70 penalties dished out to illegal operators in just a few weeks, and prohibition notices were also served on a number of limousines and towed away on the spot.

Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said; “Those operating vehicles outside of the law put the safety of their passengers and other road users at risk, and create unfair competition for legitimately-run businesses. This is something that will not be tolerated and VOSA will make full use of their powers to stop the small minority of cowboy operators who threaten to bring the industry into disrepute.”

VOSA has issued advice to schools and parents on how they can check whether a company is licensed.

It’s advising them to check if a company holds a passenger service vehicle licence by visiting VOSA’s website or calling the helpline on 0300 123 9000. Also, check if a company holds a private hire licence by contacting the local council.