Scores of taxi drivers given licenses despite having convictions for violent offences

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust warned women are being placed at risk when sharing cars with drivers who have a history of violence as they urged ministers to overhaul the law - (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Scores of taxi drivers have been able to obtain licenses despite having convictions for violent offences, a charity has found.

Data obtained following a Freedom of Information (FOI) request reveals drivers with convictions, including for violent crimes like assault, battery and harassment, have still been given licences even though licensing authorities are aware of the offences they committed.