SUPPORT: Could I on behalf of the GMB Professional Drivers Branch pass on our full support to the many Stoke cabbies who are currently fighting against the massive increase in station permits.

How Virgin can implement a 67 per cent increase in permit fees, at a time when we have deflation, is simply outrageous.

Time and time again taxi drivers are seen by train companies as easy pickings, and the GMB PDB are pleased to see the Stoke-on-Trent Hackney Carriage Association take a stand, and say enough is enough.

Nationally the GMB PDB has made a formal complaint to the Rail Regulator over increases such as the one at Stoke railway station, and the Rail Regulator has said that they will hopefully look into our concerns some time later in the year.

MICK HILDRETH

GMB Professional Drivers National (Provincial) Hackney Carriage & Private Hire Secretary