Undertaking the Knowledge of London has to be one of the most open and transparent routes to a professional qualification, it doesn’t matter if you’re male/female/black/white/young/old/rich/poor if you have the tenacity and determination you will qualify. It is a great equalizer.
The London Taxi Trade has been open to anyone for over 360 years and it has always been like that, long before the PC brigade came along.
As a female cab driver I have been made to feel welcome and included whether it be starting out at Knowledge School or later with my colleagues at trade meetings or just at places where cab drivers gather, be it at green huts or cafes.
But this is not so as regards the largest trade organisation the LTDA, which is trailing way behind with representation of the cab trade. There is not one single female representative on the COM or in any position of influence at the LTDA.
For this to be or even be a possibility we must have our democratic right as members to vote at Branch Elections reinstated. This individual should be voted for by her colleagues on merit and suitability for the position.
It could be a really positive move forward to have a woman representing the Trade in terms of media (TV/radio interviews etc) and PR. It could really help to grab the publics attention and highlight Trade issues and dispel the old stereotype of the middle-aged, tired-looking white man (sorry guys, but I think you know who I mean!)
The LTDA must reinstate the Central Branch and allow proper representation to its members and the trade as a whole.
See you all at the AGM at Friends House on the 21st September 10am.
It’s your Association. Look after it!!
Miss Represented
Mr Orange's Diary of an LTDA Member 