A taxi company executive on the Isle of Wight is contesting the revocation of his hackney carriage licence, a decision made by the local council despite his possession of a valid medical cannabis prescription. The case, involving Mr. Aslam, chief executive of Alpha IOW, raises questions regarding licensing regulations, the use of prescribed medical cannabis, and the intersection of medication with professional driving criteria.
Isle of Wight Licence Revocation Proceedings
Mr. Aslam has lodged an appeal against the Isle of Wight Council’s decision to revoke his Hackney Carriage licence, arguing the action was disproportionate. According to DM News, the council, represented by Mary Maynard, stated the licence was revoked because Mr. Aslam was no longer deemed ‘fit and proper’. This determination stemmed from complaints about the smell of cannabis during ‘school transport journeys’ prior to September 2025. An independent drugs test was conducted, and in January, Mr. Aslam confirmed he had a medical cannabis prescription.
Mr. Aslam asserts that the cannabis was not for illicit use and that he possesses a valid medical cannabis card, which he provided to the council. He stated he ensured all actions were “above board” and would not engage in illegal activities. He also reported that the council instantly suspended his licence without offering him the opportunity to attend a panel hearing. Magistrates have scheduled a final hearing for August 20 to determine the future of his licence.
UK Legal Position on Medical Cannabis and Driving
The legal framework in the UK permits specialist doctors to prescribe cannabis-based medicines since 2018. However, the legislation concerning driving whilst prescribed medical cannabis remains nuanced. Section 5A of the Road Traffic Act 1988, as amended in April 2013, establishes an offence for driving, attempting to drive, or being in charge of a vehicle with a specified controlled drug in the body exceeding a defined limit. Crucially, this legislation includes a statutory “medical defence” for patients who meet specific criteria:
- The drug was prescribed for medical purposes.
- It was taken in accordance with directions.
- The driver was not impaired while operating the vehicle.
GOV.UK guidance for healthcare professionals outlines the specifics of drug driving regulations and the medical defence.
Professional Driving Standards and Medical Cannabis
For professional drivers, including those operating taxis or heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), the criteria for maintaining a licence are more stringent. Licensing authorities, such as the Isle of Wight Council, evaluate whether an individual remains a ‘fit and proper person,’ considering factors like medical fitness, local area knowledge, and criminal history. While HGV drivers are legally required to inform their organisations of prescriptions, guidance for taxi drivers is less explicit.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has not issued specific guidance on medical cannabis prescription for taxi drivers, nor does it mandate notification unless a notifiable condition impacts driving safety. However, a 2022 report published by the Department for Transport suggested some medical professionals advise patients to notify the DVLA to mitigate risks to insurance coverage in the event of a collision.
Industry Implications and Precedent
The ongoing case involving Mr. Aslam underscores a complex area for drivers holding a medical cannabis prescription. It illustrates the tension between an individual’s right to prescribed medical treatment and the public safety obligations of licensing authorities, particularly for those transporting passengers. Complaints regarding the odour of cannabis, even when legally prescribed, can generate public concern irrespective of driver impairment or legal compliance.
For taxi and private hire operators, and other professional drivers, this situation highlights the necessity of clarifying obligations with prescribing doctors, licensing bodies, and insurance providers. The decision from the August 20 hearing could establish a significant precedent for how similar cases are managed by councils across the UK.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Hemp Gazette does not provide medical recommendations, diagnoses, or treatment plans. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before making any decisions regarding your health or any medical condition. Statements concerning the therapeutic uses of hemp, cannabis, or cannabinoid-derived products have not been evaluated by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Medicinal cannabis products in Australia are accessed via prescription pathways under TGA regulation.
