Full Breakdown
Highland Council Vote on Taxi Licences for Convicted Rapist Highlights Gender Divide
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Decision and Voting Split
A licensing committee of the Highland Council voted to allow convicted rapist David Brown to keep his taxi operator’s licences. The vote revealed a stark gender divide: all four female members of the committee voted to revoke the licences, while all six male members voted against revocation. Following the decision, the male councillors resigned from the committee.
Claims of Unconscious Bias and Committee Standards
Female councillors have argued that the male members displayed unconscious bias and failed to apply the “fit and proper person” test required for licence holders. The male councillors have defended their votes and denied any misogynistic intent.
Pattern of Similar Voting Behavior
BBC Scotland’s analysis of voting records since the committee’s formation after the 2022 local elections indicates that this gender-based split is not isolated. Several other disputed licensing decisions show comparable voting patterns, with male councillors more likely to support licence retention for controversial applicants.
Official Responses
The resigning male members publicly stated that their votes were based on procedural considerations rather than gender bias. No formal disciplinary action has been taken against any committee member to date.
Implications for Licensing Oversight
The episode has sparked broader concerns about potential gender bias influencing council decisions and the consistency of applying licensing standards. Observers suggest that the perceived divide could affect public confidence in the council’s ability to enforce the “fit and proper person” test uniformly.