Taxi licence refused after councillors cite assault, drugs and drink‑drive convictions

A man’s bid to become a taxi driver has been rejected after Fife councillors ruled that his history of assault, drug offences and drink‑driving meant he was not a “fit and proper person” to hold a licence.

Thomas Duncan’s application was considered by Fife Council’s regulation and licensing committee after Police Scotland lodged a formal representation. Duncan did not attend the hearing, and members were presented with details of three separate convictions.

According to evidence given to the committee, Duncan was previously found guilty of a domestic‑related assault involving his ex‑partner’s new partner. He was also convicted in 2018 at Edinburgh Sheriff Court for supplying a controlled drug after officers discovered herbal cannabis, a mobile phone, scales and cash during a search of his home.

The most recent offence involved a 2022 collision in Windygates, where Duncan was found to be around three and a half times over the legal drink‑drive limit.

Police Scotland told councillors that the combination of assault, drug and road‑traffic offences demonstrated that Duncan was unsuitable for a taxi licence. Councillor Lea McLelland moved to refuse the application, stating she agreed with the police assessment.

The committee unanimously rejected the bid.