[2024] UKUT 225 (AAC)

The Appellant was called to a PI by way of call up letter dated 1 June 2023 (updated and reissued on 6 June 2023), which stated that, as a result of the application for an operator’s licence by PHR Grab Hire Ltd, the TC had concerns regarding the Appellant’s good repute, financial standing, and professional competence as an operator. He was also concerned as to whether the operating centre specified on the Appellant’s licence was suitable for heavy goods vehicles. The letter warned that the Appellant’s licence was at risk. A separate letter was sent to the Appellant in his capacity as transport manager (dated 6 June 2023) which stated that the TC had concerns regarding the transport manager’s good repute and professional competence, also putting the Appellant’s licence at risk. The TC sought to hold a PI to investigate further, and to give the Appellant an opportunity to explain what had arisen in evidence against his repute. The PI took place in Edinburgh on 6 July 2023. The Appellant attended with the support of various members of his family. He was not represented.