I wish to take issue with the editor's comment saying the taxi trade thinks it is a special case (April 24).

This is not so.

I have held a taxi badge since 1972 and my own taxi plate since 1974, served on our Taxi Drivers Assoc iation as an officer, and over years in the trade have always considered we are there to serve the public.

Perhaps it is not understood we are licensed by the local council and strictly controlled over fares and vehicles.

Since 2000 Southend Council has controlled taxi fares based on the consumer price index.

Brian Houssart
Glenwood Avenue
Leigh