Bill Kidd, SNP MSP for Glasgow, has welcomed steps undertaken by the Cabinet Secretary for Justice to clamp down on rogue taxi owners following concerns over criminal activity within the industry.

Mr Kidd had recently met with concerned members of Glasgow Taxis and subsequently raised the issue with Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill.

New legislation laid in the Scottish Parliament will make it much more difficult for serious organised criminals to muscle in on the taxi trade.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Kidd said: "I am pleased that the Cabinet Secretary for Justice has taken necessary measures to prevent serious organised criminals nestling their way into the taxi trade.

"I understand that members of Glasgow Taxis met with the Justice Secretary today and have welcomed his assurances.

"I also welcome the action the Cabinet Secretary for Justice is taking. This will allow the police the right to inspect the premises and records of taxi firms in order to ensure that no illegal activities are taking place.

"I believe that until we can be sure that all taxi firms are above board then public bodies should think twice about awarding new contracts to private taxi firms without these assurances. Indeed, I have written to the Greater Glasgow and Clyde health board over their proposal to take the £1 million contract which they have with Glasgow Taxis and award it instead to a private-hire firm with inferior vehicle stock, asking them for their reasoning over this decision."