We have read your article on the new tuk-tuk licences (The Argus, April 12) with concern and have written to the Traffic Commissioner regarding the issue of these licences.

While the tuk-tuks are a popular and quirky addition to the seafront, we have grave reservations about their safety and their deployment as a "taxi service". We also have concerns regarding training given to tuk-tuk staff.

We value competition in the field of transport, in order to enable more people to travel around the city affordably.

However, the form of competition the tuk-tuks have entered into appears distinctly skewed in their favour. This we cannot support.

Taxi drivers have to undergo a vigorous training programme which includes extensive study of the city's road network and premises, together with hands-on training in the loading and unloading of wheelchairs.

Taxi drivers are also required to re-license their vehicles and re-license themselves on an annual basis, and have to undergo enhanced Criminal Record Bureau checks. Tuk-tuk drivers, on the other hand, are subject to none of these stringent conditions.

We are also concerned about the possibility of alcohol-fuelled groups riding in tuk-tuks, as this presents additional road safety issues.

We feel that the granting of a "diala- ride" licence to Tuc Tuc Ltd raises issues of safety and competitiveness, and have asked the Traffic Commissioner to respond to our concerns.